International Day of Forests observed with the theme Forests and Climate Change

21 March: International Day of Forests
International Day of Forests was observed on 21 March 2015 with the theme Forests and Climate Change. The theme highlights forest-based solutions to address climate change mitigation and adaptation, and more broadly forests and sustainable development.

The day provides a platform to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and of trees outside forests. The day is also used to communicate the vital role forests play in poverty eradication, environmental sustainability and food security.

21 March was established as the International Day of Forests by resolution A/RES/67/200 of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 28 November 2012. International Day of Forests was observed for the first time on 21 March 2013.

About Forests and their status
One third of the Earth’s land mass (about 31 percent of global land area) is covered by forests, which performs vital function around the world and is a home for more than 80 percent of the terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects.

Around 1.6 billion people, including 2000 indigenous cultures, depend on forests for their livelihood. Forests provide shelter, jobs and security for forest-dependent communities.

How forests help people?
Forests play a key role in battle in adapting to and mitigating climate change. They contribute to balance of oxygen, carbon dioxide and humidity in air. They protect watersheds, which supply 75 percent of freshwater worldwide.

Forest play an important role like ecological, economic, social and health benefits, despite these factors the rate of global deforestation has increased at an alarming rate. Reports suggest that 13 million hectares (32 million acres) of forest are destroyed annually. Deforestation accounts for 12 to 20 percent of the global greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.