Established on March 21, the International Day of Forests was designated by a resolution of the United Nations General Assembly on November 28, 2013. Each year, a variety of events are held to celebrate and promote awareness of the crucial role that all types of forests and trees outside forests play for the benefit of current and future generations. Countries are urged to organize local, national, and international activities related to forests and trees, including tree planting campaigns, on the International Day of Forests. The Secretariat of the United Nations Forum on Forests, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization, facilitates the implementation of such events in partnership with governments, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests, and international, regional, and subregional organizations. The International Day of Forests was first observed on March 21, 2013.

Purpose

The International Day of Forests aims to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and trees outside forests. It encourages countries to undertake local, national, and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree-planting campaigns.

Significance of Forests

1. Environmental Benefits:

   • Forests cover about 31% of the Earth's land area.
   • They play a crucial role in climate regulation by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen.
   • Forests are biodiversity hotspots, home to 80% of terrestrial animals, plants, and fungi.
   • They protect watersheds, which supply 75% of the world’s freshwater.

2. Economic Benefits:

   • Provide resources like timber, fuel, and non-timber products such as fruits, nuts, and medicines.
   • Forestry and logging employ millions of people globally.

3. Social and Cultural Benefits:

   • Indigenous peoples and local communities rely on forests for their livelihoods and cultural practices.
   • Forests offer recreational opportunities and promote mental and physical health.

Themes

Each year, the International Day of Forests is celebrated with a specific theme to focus on particular aspects of forests and their importance. Examples of past themes include:

• "Forests and Education": Emphasizing the role of education in sustainable forest management.
• "Forests and Biodiversity": Highlighting the rich biodiversity of forests and the need to protect it.
• "Forest Restoration: A Path to Recovery and Well-being": Focusing on restoring degraded forests to improve ecosystem health and human well-being.

Activities and Celebrations

1. Tree Planting:

   • Community groups, schools, and organizations plant trees to contribute to reforestation and urban greening efforts.

2. Educational Programs:

   • Schools and universities conduct workshops, seminars, and exhibitions to educate students about the importance of forests.

3. Community Engagement:

   • Local communities participate in forest clean-up activities, nature walks, and conservation projects.

4. Media Campaigns:

   • Awareness campaigns on social media, television, and radio to spread the message about the significance of forests.

5. Policy Advocacy:

   • Governments and NGOs advocate for stronger forest conservation policies and sustainable management practices.

Global Impact

The International Day of Forests helps to:

• Promote global awareness about the critical role forests play in sustaining life on Earth.
• Encourage collaborative efforts to protect and sustainably manage forests.
• Inspire individuals and communities to take action to conserve and restore forests.

Key Organizations

• Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): Leads global efforts to raise awareness and coordinate activities for the International Day of Forests.
• United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): Works on forest conservation and restoration projects worldwide.
• World Wildlife Fund (WWF): Engages in numerous initiatives to protect forest ecosystems and support sustainable forestry.

Challenges Facing Forests

1. Deforestation:

   • Large-scale clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development.

2. Climate Change:

   • Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affect forest health and increase the risk of wildfires.

3. Biodiversity Loss:

   • Habitat destruction leads to the loss of species that depend on forests.

4. Unsustainable Practices:

   • Over-harvesting of timber and non-timber forest products without proper management.

By observing the International Day of Forests, the global community emphasizes the indispensable role that forests play in environmental health, economic stability, and social well-being. This day encourages everyone to actively participate in efforts to protect and sustain our forests for future generations.