International Forest Day is celebrated every year on March 21. It was established under a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly on November 28, 2012. The purpose of this day is to highlight the importance of forests and trees and to promote their conservation for present and future generations. Various countries observe this day by organizing tree-planting campaigns, awareness programs, and other activities. It encourages governments, organizations, and citizens to make efforts toward forest conservation and sustainable management.
History
Recognizing the importance of forests, the 16th session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1971 decided to celebrate March 21 as World Forestry Day. Later, in 2011, the year was declared as the International Year of Forests. Finally, in 2012, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated March 21 as International Forest Day.
Importance of Forests
Forests are essential for life on Earth. They cover more than 30% of the land area and are home to over 60,000 tree species. They provide vital resources such as water, food, medicine, and fuel.
- Biodiversity Conservation: More than 80% of terrestrial biodiversity resides in forests.
- Contribution to Combating Climate Change: Forests help absorb carbon, thereby controlling climate change.
- Source of Livelihood: Approximately 1.6 billion people depend on forests.
- Environmental Balance: Forests regulate the rainfall cycle and prevent soil erosion.
Forest Degradation and Challenges
Every year, approximately 13 million hectares of forest—an area equivalent to the size of England—is lost. The consequences of deforestation include:
- Increased climate change
- Destruction of wildlife habitats
- Negative impact on local communities’ livelihoods
To protect forests, the following measures should be adopted:
- Promote afforestation (tree planting)
- Implement sustainable forestry practices
- Prevent illegal logging
- Raise awareness among local communities
- Enforce strict forest conservation policies by governments
REDD+ Initiative
The United Nations launched the REDD+(Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries) initiative to prevent deforestation and forest degradation. Its objectives include:
- Reducing carbon emissions
- Promoting forest conservation
- Preserving biodiversity
Conclusion
International Forest Day reminds us that life without forests is incomplete. It is crucial to take concrete steps to protect forests and work for their conservation at all levels. On a personal level, it is our responsibility to promote tree plantation and forest protection awareness. Through the combined efforts of governments, organizations, and the general public, we can safeguard forests and ensure a greener and healthier future for generations to come.
Also Read:
- World Wildlife Day 2025: Celebration of Nature & Conservation
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Definition, Causes and Impacts
