International day of forests : Forests and the SDGs

Recognizing the importance of forests and its ecosystems and the threats they face, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests (IDF). On each IDF, countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees. The IDF 2019 is commemorated under the theme “Learn to Love Forests”. It underscores the importance of forestry education (both scientific and traditional) at all levels in achieving sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation. Through forestry education, countries can help ensure that there are scientists, policy makers, foresters and local communities working to halt deforestation and restore degraded landscape. In turn, healthy forests will help us to achieve many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), for example by supporting the livelihoods of some of the world’s poorest communities and conserving biodiversity. To mark the IDF 2019, FAO Geneva is organizing an event “Forests and the SDGs” on 21 March to raise awareness on the importance of forests and trees.