International Day of Forests is observed annually on 21st March. This day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness about the importance of forests and to promote the sustainable management, conservation, and development of all types of forests.
A crucial role for our ecosystem
Forests are an essential part of our planet's ecosystem, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the earth's ecosystem. They provide a home to millions of species of animals, birds, and insects, and are also a source of livelihood for millions of people around the world. They also act as a natural carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The theme for International Day of Forests 2023 is "Forest restoration: a path to recovery and well-being". This theme highlights the importance of restoring degraded forests and the role of forests in promoting human well-being.
What is “Forest Restoration” exactly?
Forest restoration refers to the process of actively managing and regenerating degraded forests to improve their ecological, social, and economic values. Forest restoration is essential for ensuring the health and vitality of forest ecosystems and for promoting the well-being of people who depend on forests for their livelihoods.
It can take many forms, from natural regeneration to active restoration, and can include a variety of techniques, such as tree planting, coppicing, pruning, and thinning. The restoration process can also involve the removal of invasive species, the reintroduction of native species, and the management of fire and other disturbances.
Pahmung krui Damar Forest by Eka Fendiaspara, Indonesia
The benefits are of course numerous, including improved biodiversity, increased carbon storage, enhanced water quality and quantity, and increased resilience to climate change. It can also provide opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, such as ecotourism, sustainable forest management, and non-timber forest product harvesting.
Forest restoration can also contribute to the achievement of several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 15, which aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, and SDG 13, which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
A collective work is required
On this International Day of Forests, it is important to remember that forests are not just trees, but complex ecosystems that support life on earth. They are essential for the survival of the planet and for the well-being of people around the world. We must take collective action to protect and restore our forests to ensure a sustainable future for all.
Sleeping beauty by Pablo Pro, Spain
Governments, civil society organisations, the private sector, and individuals all have a role to play in promoting forest restoration. Governments can promote policies and programs that support forest restoration, such as forest landscape restoration initiatives and payments for ecosystem services. Civil society organisations can mobilise communities and raise awareness about the importance of forest restoration.
Morning from Situ Gunung by Prasetyo Nurramdhan, Indonesia
The private sector can invest in sustainable forest management practices and promote the use of sustainably sourced forest products. This is what Kaltimber does through using 100%reclaimed wood for all products, and our CSR program to plant rare trees.
Kaltimber CSR program
Individuals can also make a difference by supporting sustainable forest products, reducing their carbon footprint, and advocating for forest restoration.
In conclusion, International Day of Forests is a reminder of the importance of forests for the health of our planet and the well-being of people around the world. Forest restoration is essential for maintaining the ecological, social, and economic values of forests and for promoting human well-being. We must all take collective action to protect and restore our forests and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.