Roosevelt referred to them as “the lungs of the planet.” They have inspired Robert Frost and millions of poets, and Sting is battling to preserve them. We are discussing ecosystems. And it’s not just celebrities who sense a strong connection with them. We all do. A straightforward walk through the woods can both calm and stimulate our senses. In fact, forests are so essential to the future of our planet that the United Nations has designated March 21 as International Day of Forests. This remarkable global celebration has been raising worldwide awareness of the significance of forests for many years. We must preserve and protect them as one of our greatest natural treasures.
The background of International Day of Forests
It was evident that forests and ecosystems were threatened. On average, 32 million acres of forest were lost each year, according to the data compiled. Along with the destruction of the forests, flora and fauna were also eradicated. Climate change, excessive carbon emissions, and pollution were indications that immediate action was required. During the 1971 session of the Food and Agriculture Organization Conference, it was proposed that March 21 be observed as World Forestry Day.
In 2012, the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) launched six forest days. In 2007, the first Forest Day was observed at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Bali, Indonesia. (UNFCCC). 2008 marked the second Forest Day in Poland. There were over 900 attendees who discussed climate change. Copenhagen, Denmark played host to the third Forest Day. This time, there were 1,500 stakeholders, including 500 members of non-governmental organizations. Mexico’s Cancun hosted the fourth Forest Day. “Time to Act” was designated as the theme. The fifth one was conducted in Durban, South Africa, and more than a thousand people from eighty countries attended. In 2012, the sixth Forest Day was celebrated in Doha, Qatar. It was discussed how to finance adaptation and desertification.
Following six International Forest Days, the United Nations General Assembly on November 28, 2012 established International Day of Forests or World Forestry Day.
National Forest Day: All you Need to Know About
5 UNBELIEVABLE BENEFITS OF FORESTS
Forests play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, stabilizing it, and preserving its quality.
Forests are “carbon sinks” because they absorb and store carbon dioxide.
For millions of species, forests provide both shelter and nourishment for their survival.
95% of water is absorbed and redistributed by forest trees.
Forests managed sustainably provide basic materials such as wood and paper.
Environment and Ecology: Environmental Science, Air Pollution
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FORESTS DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | March 21 | Tuesday |
2024 | March 21 | Thursday |
2025 | March 21 | Friday |
2026 | March 21 | Saturday |
2027 | March 21 | Sunday |