World Forestry Day is observed on March 21, and we’re here to show you how you can celebrate the day in the best way possible. Do you know that it has been more than 10 years since the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21 to be celebrated as International Day of Forests or World Forestry Day? Environment campaigns, discussions, and other initiatives are held in over 60 countries for the protection of forests and to ensure sustainable development. People celebrate this day by raising awareness of environmental issues like deforestation and the steps necessary to prevent them. People also visit their nearest forest reserves and get together with other environmentalists.
History of World Forestry Day
The threat to forests and ecosystems was evident. It was noted that 32 million acres of forest land were lost on average every year. Along with the forests, the flora and fauna were also obliterated. Climate change, high emissions of carbon, and pollution were signs that some action needed to be taken immediately. During the 1971 session of the Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization, the members proposed March 21 be celebrated as World Forestry Day.
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) in 2012 initiated six forest days. The first forest day was held in Bali, Indonesia in 2007 at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The second forest day was held in Poland in 2008. It had over 900 participants who discussed climate change. The third Forest Day was held in Copenhagen, Denmark. This time the number of stakeholders was 1,500 which included 500 Nongovernmental Organization members. The fourth Forest Day was held in Cancun, Mexico. The theme was chosen as ‘Time to Act.’ The fifth one was held in Durban, South Africa which was attended by more than 1,000 people from 80 countries. The sixth Forest Day was held in Doha, Qatar in 2012. Issues like financing for adaptation and desertification were discussed.
Following the six International Forests Days, International Day of Forests or World Forestry Day was created at the United Nations General Assembly on November 28, 2012.
World Forestry Day timeline
World Forestry Day is proposed by the members of the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR).
The First Forest Day is celebrated in Indonesia.
The sixth Forest Day is held in Doha, Qatar.
International Day of Forests is created at the United Nations General Assembly.
World Forestry Day FAQs
Why is International Forests Day celebrated?
It aims to raise awareness about the importance of all types of forests.
What is the difference between Afforestation and Reforestation?
Afforestation is planting trees where none have existed before and reforestation is replanting trees in a place where they were destroyed.
What is the Chipko Movement?
It is a nonviolent protest against the cutting of trees by hugging (chipko) the trees and refusing to let go.
How to Observe World Forestry Day
Raise awareness
Use this day to raise awareness about deforestation and its effects on the environment. Educate people about the steps they can take to conserve forests.
Share it on social media
Let everyone know you're celebrating this day. Take pictures of you taking part in World Forestry Day campaigns and share them on social media.
Learn more about forests
Learn more about different types of forests. Do you have a forest near you? What wildlife is seen in these types of forests? Use this day to improve your knowledge.
5 Amazing Facts About Forests
They filter the air
Trees can remove pollutants and fine particles from the air.
They provide fuel
Wood fuel is said to supply 40% of today's fuel needs.
They provide medicines
Rainforests provide up to 25% of the medicines we use.
They provide water
Many cities have access to hygienic drinking water because of forests.
They are home to many species
About 80% of land animals and various insect and bird species all live in forests.
Why World Forestry Day is Important
It gives us a chance to appreciate forests
This day gives us a chance to appreciate what forests provide us. Most of the things that we use in our life come from forests.
It does something for the environment
This day gives us an opportunity to do our part in protecting the environment. It gives us a chance to save trees and forests.
It gives us a chance to raise awareness
This day gives us a chance to raise awareness among people. We get to talk about the importance of protecting our forests and all other ecosystems.
World Forestry Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 21 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 21 | Saturday |
| 2027 | March 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | March 21 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | March 21 | Wednesday |
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