Why Cutting Down Trees Hits Your Pocket

Forests are more than just trees. They are the backbone of many industries, especially agriculture. When forests disappear, so do the benefits they provide, like clean water and healthy soil. This is not just an environmental issue; it is a business problem. Take coffee, for example. In Brazil, cutting down trees has led to less rain and poorer soil. This means fewer coffee beans and higher prices for your morning brew. It is not just coffee; many products are feeling the heat. By 2050, climate change could cut crop yields by 10% worldwide, and up to 50% in some areas. Businesses are now facing a tough choice: pay more for ingredients, reduce profits, or pass the cost to consumers. Neither option is great. But there is a third way: invest in nature.Companies can start by improving their own supply chains. For example, using farming methods that help soil and water. This can save money in the long run. Nestle did this in Vietnam and saw better yields and healthier soil. It is a win-win. But fixing one farm is not enough. Forests affect entire regions. So, companies should also invest in protecting forests and restoring wetlands. This helps everyone, not just one business. To make these projects work, they need to make money. Selling carbon credits is one way. These credits pay for protecting nature and can be sold on the market. The Natural Climate Solutions Alliance is pushing for more of these credits because they help the climate, nature, and people. At COP30, leaders agreed that protecting nature is key to economic stability. For businesses, 2026 is a chance to innovate and collaborate. Investing in nature is not just good for the planet; it is good for business.