Every year, March 21 is marked as the International Day of Forests also known as World Forests Day. It is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of forests and trees for biodiversity which promotes the survival of humanity and the planet.
The theme changes every year to highlight different aspects of forest conservation and management. The theme for International Day of Forests 2023 is ‘forests and health.’
The history of the International Day of Forests dates back to 1971 when the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) established World Forestry Day.
The day was established to create and raise awareness of the importance of forests for people and the planet.
In 2011, the United Nations declared the years 2011 to 2020 as the International Decade of Forests. Its objective was to promote sustainable management, conservation, and development of all types of forests.
In the year 2012, the International Day of Forests was established.
Forests play a significant role in our lives. Forests cover about one- third of the world’s land mass . People and various indigenous cultures depend upon forests for their livelihoods.
They provide shelter to animals and insects and the balancing of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and humidity in the air. 80% of all terrestrial biodiversity lives in forests, and each year many species go extinct as a result of them being destroyed.
Forests also play a critical role in climate change deforestation results in 12-18 percent of the world’s carbon emissions and accelerated global warming.
On this day, organizations and individuals around the world organize events and activities to raise awareness of the importance of forests and to promote sustainable forest management practices.
The day also provides an opportunity to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the world’s forests and to recognize the important role they play in our lives.
As an individual, you can also celebrate this day by planting a tree and also creating awareness about trees among the people around you and even via social media.
Ways of protecting forests include:
Reduce paper usage by using electronic documents.
Prefer recycled products over nonbiodegradable ones.
Educate people around you to adopt an eco-friendly approach towards nature.
Promote reforestation efforts to counter the negative effects of deforestation.
BY MARGARET MUGO