International Day of Forests

International Day of Forests History

International Day of Forests seeks to raise awareness about the vital role of forests in preserving our planet's biodiversity and combating climate change. Forests are a main element in global sustainability, sequestering carbon, cleaning our air and water, and providing habitat for countless species. The observance underlines the importance of sustainable forest management, conservation, and the sustainable use of woodland resources.

The UN General Assembly proclaimed the International Day of Forests in 2012. In the UK context, forests hold a pivotal role in the country’s ecological, socio-economic, and cultural aspects. Ancient woodland, a significant element of UK's heritage, makes up only 2% of land area now. The observance emphasizes the need to protect these woods and the biodiversity they support. Woodlands also provide leisure opportunities, enhance mental well-being, and contribute to the economy through timber production and tourism.

In the UK, the International Day of Forests encourages activities including tree planting, educational exhibitions, and forest and woodland walks. Many NGOs, government bodies and communities engage in activities that promote public awareness about the importance and benefits of forests. Schools organise educational activities to instil value for trees and woodland in younger generations. The UK marks the International Day of Forests annually on March 21, aligning with other nations to highlight the world's concern for global forest health.

Facts about International Day of Forests

• The theme for International Day of Forests in 2024 was Forests and innovation: New solutions for a better world. In 2023 the theme was Forests and health.
• According to the World Bank, forested watersheds and wetlands supply 75% of the world’s accessible fresh water. This water is made available for domestic, agricultural, industrial, and ecological use.
• According to the UN, approximately 1.6 billion people worldwide depend on forests for their livelihood.
• Some species of trees in the UK forests are over 1,000 years old and are considered ancient. These ancient trees are often found in ancient woodlands, a term used in the United Kingdom to refer specifically to old forests or stands of trees that have continuously had tree-cover for centuries.
• The largest forest in the UK is the Galloway Forest Park in Scotland, spanning over 300 square miles.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day of Forests

Top things to do in the UK for International Day of Forests

• Watch the 2020 International Day of Forest's virtual program if you missed it.
• Share your favorite photo of a forest or plant with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN by emailing it to idf@fao.org. The UN will add it to a combined gallery of everyone’s pictures around the world!
• Explore the Epping Forest: Located between London and Essex, this ancient woodland is open to the public for recreational activities. You can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding or even foraging. During International Day of Forests, special activities and exhibits could also be available.
• Read a book to learn more about Forests in United Kingdom:
  The New Sylva: A Discourse of Forest and Orchard Trees for the Twenty-First Century - by Gabriel Hemery and Sarah Simblet
  The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate―Discoveries from A Secret World - by Peter Wohlleben (While this isn't specifically about UK forests, it is a revolutionary look at trees in general)