International Day of Forests – Update (March, 2023)

March 22, 2023

Every year on March 21st, World Forestry Day or International Day of Forests is celebrated to increase global awareness about the crucial role of forests in sustaining life on Earth. The day is recognised as an effort to educate people about the numerous benefits of forests, including providing food, purifying air, resources, and life-saving medicines. Moreover, they play a significant role in combating climate change, poverty alleviation, maintaining ecological balance, and more.

Contents

Protecting the Forests: Need of the Hour
Theme of World Forestry Day 2023
History and Significance of World Forestry Day

Protecting the Forests: Need of the Hour

Forests are vital for the well-being of current and future generations. However, the increasing rate of deforestation, forest fires, droughts, pests, and other factors is posing a significant threat to their survival. To conserve forests and protect their existence, people are encouraged to contribute on local, national, and international levels. One of the easiest and most effective ways to preserve forests is by afforestation or planting of trees.

Theme of World Forestry Day 2023

Each year, World Forestry Day is recognised under a specific theme. In 2023, the theme of World Forestry Day is “Forests and Health.” The aim of this year’s theme is to raise awareness about the critical link between healthy forests and healthy people.

History and Significance of World Forestry Day

In 2012, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed March 21st as World Forestry Day to create awareness about the conservation and protection of all types of forests to maintain ecological balance. The Collaborative Partnership on Forests (CPF) selects the theme of International Day of Forests annually. According to the UNGA, the United Nations Forum on Forests and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) are responsible for organizing events and campaigns related to the World Forestry Day.