“They act as natural filters, providing clean air and water, and they are a haven for biodiversity…[and] help regulate our climate by influencing rain patterns, cooling urban areas and absorbing a third of greenhouse gas emissions,” explains Secretary General António Guterres.
Celebrated annually on March 21, the international day reminds everyone that the sustainable management of forests and their resources is key to combating climate change and contributing to prosperity and well-being. welfare of present and future generations.
Fight poverty
Forests also play an important role in alleviating poverty and achieving Sustainable development goals (SDG).
“They provide many communities and indigenous peoples with livelihood, medicine, food and shelter,” the UN chief said.
Non-stop deforestation
Despite these invaluable ecological, economic, social and health benefits, global deforestation continues at an alarming rate.
While pledges to stop indiscriminate felling of trees have come out “loudly and clearly,” and slowdowns have been registered in some regions, “every year we still degrade and destroy destroyed about 10 million hectares of forest,” he said.
‘It is essential for the world to implement the recent Glasgow Leaders’ Forest and Land Use Statement and other tools designed to protect our forests,” stressed the Secretary-General.
To the healthy forests
Now is the time for “visible and credible action on the ground,” he said.
This means ending unsustainable production and consumption patterns that endanger forests and providing support for sustainable forest management in countries and peoples that need it.
“On this International Day of Forests, let’s spread the word about healthy forests for healthier livelihoods‘ he concluded.
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Scene of the day
Common language declare International Forest Day 2012 March 21 is to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of forests.
At all levels, countries are encouraged to organize activities related to forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns.
Collaborate with others, UN Forum on Forests and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)Organize events during the day.
