International Day of Forests

The International Day of Forests is celebrated annually on March 21. 

Background

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests in 2012 to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests. Countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns.

The organizers are the United Nations Forum on Forests and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with Governments, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and other relevant organizations in the field.

Theme for 2024 - Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World

The battle against deforestation requires new technological advancements. With 10 million hectares lost annually due to deforestation and approximately 70 million hectares affected by fires, these innovations are essential for early warning systems, sustainable commodity production, and empowering Indigenous Peoples through land mapping and climate finance access.

Additionally, ecosystem restoration, including reforestation efforts, can significantly contribute to climate mitigation and enhance food security while pushing the boundaries of sustainable wood products. and enhance food security while promoting sustainable wood products.

Did you know?

• Forest are home to 80 % of all know amphibian species.
• More than 30% of new diseases reported since 1960 are attributed to land use change, including deforestation.
• Forests contain over ½ the global carbon stock in soils and vegetation.
• An area roughly the equivalent of 14 million football pitches is lost per year to deforestation.
• Insect pests damage around 35 million hectares of forest annually.
• Forested watersheds and wetlands provide 75% of the world´s accessible freshwater.

Source : UN 

Related resources

• FAO's International Day of Forest website