Speaking in Madagascar, Pope says deforestation now a global threat

Experts believe the island has lost about 44 percent of its forest over the past 60 years.

Pope Francis said on Saturday rapid deforestation and the loss of biodiversity in individual countries should not be treated as local issues since they threaten the future of the planet.

Addressing Madagascar’s president, Andry Rajoelina, his cabinet and other officials, Francis said some people were profiting from excessive deforestation and the associated loss of species. “The last forests are menaced by forest fires, poaching, the unrestricted cutting down of valuable woodlands. Plant and animal biodiversity is endangered by contraband and illegal exportation,” Pope Francis said.

Madagascar is one of world’s poorest countries. The United Nations' World Food Program estimates that more than 90 percent of its population of 26 million live on less than US$2 a day, with chronic child malnutrition widespread.

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