Forests are our lifeline. We all depend upon forests in some way or the other for survival. Plants release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, which helps the animals for respiration. They also maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. That is why the forests are called green lungs. Forests provide us with fresh air to breathe, food, medicines, and other sources like wood, fodder and other raw materials for the industries. Forests prevent soil erosion and hold the earth firmly.