Rainforests have been called “the lungs of the planet,” and for good reason. These tropical environments, densely packed with plants found nowhere else on Earth, absorb huge amounts of carbon dioxide every year. The engaging main text, enhanced with in-depth sidebars, explores the thick jungles of the Amazon, the towering canopies of Borneo, and the unique ecosystems that thrive in these wet, tropical environments. Readers discover the incredible biodiversity hidden in the trees, from exotic animals to rare plants, and learn about the vital role rainforests play in sustaining our planet.