World leaders agree to launch rainforest conservation fund

World leaders at a climate summit in Brazil have agreed to launch a fund to help conserve tropical forests. The leaders agreed to an initiative called the Tropical Forest Forever Facility, or TFFF, proposed by the Brazilian government. More than 50 countries and regions, including Japan, expressed support.

The fund aims to raise a total of 125 billion dollars from both the public and private sectors. Brazilian President Lula da Silva said the initiative would be significant for efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He warned if forest destruction reaches irreversible levels, the impact will be felt across the world.