The International Day of Forests (21 March) highlights the vital role of forests in food security, nutrition, and sustainable livelihoods. This year’s theme, “Forests and Foods”, connects forests to global efforts to combat hunger, protect biodiversity, and address climate change.
Here are 5 reasons why this theme is so important:
- Forests feed the world
Forests provide a variety of edible resources, from fruits, nuts, and seeds to wild game and mushrooms. More than five billion people depend on forests and non-timber products for food, medicine, and income.
- A key to achieving zero hunger
By sustaining pollinators, improving soil fertility, and regulating water cycles, forests enhance agricultural productivity. Agroforestry—a farming method that integrates trees and crops—can boost food security while preserving ecosystems.
- Climate action through forest conservation
Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing billions of metric tonnes of CO₂ annually. Sustainable forest management helps mitigate climate change, protecting food systems from climate-related disasters like droughts and floods.
- Biodiversity and life on land
Forests host 80 per cent of terrestrial species, supporting ecosystems that sustain healthy, resilient food systems. Protecting forests is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, preventing land degradation, and securing food sources.
- Forests support livelihoods and local economies
Millions of people, especially Indigenous Peoples and rural communities, rely on forests for employment and income. Strengthening sustainable forest-based value chains—like non-timber forest products—improves economic resilience.
Get involved!
The International Day of Forests is led by the UN Forum on Forests Secretariat, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and Food and Agriculture Organization to raise awareness and promote sustainable management, conservation and sustainable development of all forests and trees for present and future generations.
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Join the conversation on social media using #ForestDay. Find graphics in 6 languages to share.
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Join the event at UN Headquarters in Conference Room 6 on 21 March from 10:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. (New York time) or on UN Web TV.
This article first appeared in DESA Voice.
