Forest Justice

Make this year’s FIFA World Cup a victory for the Amazon Rainforest!

The world is holding its breath for the outcome of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. But did you know the impacts of this year’s Cup extend far beyond the stadium, to distant rainforests in the Brazilian Amazon?

For the first time in history, an ‘all-star’ team of shoe brands sponsoring the World Cup—Adidas, Nike, Puma and Umbro—is putting the ball in play to protect our planet’s largest rainforest. From June 11 – July 11, fans in Brazil and around the world can support their favorite teams, while also rooting for the future of our Amazon!

The Amazon-Leather Connection

Cattle expansion is the largest driver of deforestation on earth. The Amazon rainforest is home to one-third of all plant and animal species, and as forests are lost so is the wildlife they support.

In Brazil, an area of rainforest as large as the state of Texas has been cleared and is now used for cattle production. Brazilian leather makes it in to sporting goods, shoes, apparel, and accessories sold by many global brands.

In recent months, progress has been made towards the goal of ending Amazon destruction for cattle. Major companies, including Adidas, Nike, Puma and Umbro, have taken steps to prevent further rainforest clearing in Brazil by pledging to only use deforestation-free leather in their cleats, balls, apparel and other products.

But many companies that sell leather shoes, clothing and accessories have yet to ‘play fair’ when it comes to the Amazon.  

 Companies need to know you want deforestation-free products!

Join TEAM AMAZON! Sign National Wildlife Federation’s petition and show your support for products that protect the Amazon rainforest and its wildlife, for future generations. 

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• Learn more about NWF’s international work