Forest fires not only accelerate global warming, but they also wreak havoc on countless species – even some which might be the last you would expect.

A story has emerged of a tortoise who was the victim of horrific injuries in Brazil thanks to Amazon fires. 

Freddy was in desperate need of medical attention after he lost his entire shell in bush fires, and luckily scientists used incredible new technology to help him out.

Freddy was badly burned, but a group of veterinarians, a dental surgeon and a designer decided to take up the challenge of aiding his recovery – forming a group called the Animal Avengers.

They managed to create a new shell for Freddy using 3D printing technology. The project successfully created a perfect fit to protect the tortoise, and a designer even painted the shell to mimic the animal’s beautiful patterns. 

The shell has given Freddy, who vets initially thought had little chance of survival, a new lease of life.

You can fund the Animal Avengers here.

• Read: Activist saves 7 dogs crammed in tiny cages from slaughter in Cambodia

Amazon fires are started deliberately to clear space for cattle farms. Share this story to show the world the damage the beef industry does to the planet. 

Oli Gross

Oli’s career and personal ethical values both help shape his reporting of the diverse world of veganism. His background is in local newspaper and magazine journalism, and his work has included reporting court cases, celebrity interviews, business analysis, food and drink features and government legislation.

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