Amazon rainforest, Peru

© Rhett Ayers Butler/Getty Image

A world within a world. World Rainforest Day

Welcome to the largest tropical rainforest on planet Earth, the Amazon. This image was taken in Peru, home to about 13% of the Amazon rainforest. Most of it, about 60%, is in Brazil, while Colombia has about 10%. Smaller amounts can be found in Bolivia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela. Covering nearly 40% of South America, the rainforest has drawn travelers from around the world to explore the lush terrain and extraordinary biodiversity.

The Amazon rainforest absorbs a substantial amount of carbon dioxide that is emitted into the atmosphere. It also contributes to the production of about 20% of the world's oxygen. The Amazon and all rainforests are essential in combatting the consequences of global warming. To protect the rainforests from climate change and deforestation, Rainforest Partnership, a conservation organisation, created World Rainforest Day in 2017 to raise awareness of the rainforests' plight. To help preserve these critical natural resources, pledge to make eco-friendly choices in your daily life or host a rainforest awareness day for your friends and family.