Who cares about Rainforests...and bogs?!

In today's world you need to "go green" and think "global" in order to save what really matters- the one thing we all take for granted...our global home, "Mother Earth".

"Generation Gap."

Do you get pocket money? Do you save counting the pennies to buy something really special? Well saving is important, but what's the point of having loads of money if we don't hold on to what's left of nature and wildlife?

If we don't look after what we've got and try and restore what's been destroyed, we won't be able to hand down a clean and green gift of a world to future generations.

More and more people are becoming aware of environmental problems. One of the biggest issues is the decline in tropical rainforests. Their loss has meant an increase in the list of endangered species with animals like orang-utans under threat and fast disappearing.

The tropical rainforests are important, but there are problems much closer to home.

Where the heart is...

One of the most fragile environments in the PeAk district is situated above Stanage Edge. Here there is a footpath which has increased in size because it is used by tens of thousands of people each year. The increase would not be so serious if it wasn't next to a rare type of moorland.

Blanket bog moorland is even rarer than the rainforests and the Peak District has some of the best examples in the world. Not surprisingly this is a site of special scientific interest, one which could soon be eroded away. If the moorland goes so do the plants, birds and animals which live there.

Problems are mainly caused when walkers or cyclists, in search of flatter ground, venture off the footpath onto the moorland. Because this area is so rare it is now illegal to cycle along the top of Stanage.

To protect the bogs, paths were restored and restricted to walkers. Drainage was improved and alternative routes for mountain bikes, motorcyclists and horse riders were clearly signposted.

Interesting to think that a site to rival the endangered rainforests should sit nestled in the PeAk District. So next time you are out and about enjoying the countryside, please don't misuse it. It could be rarer than you think.

Remember preserving today could mean saving tomorrow.