Forests have always had an intrinsic link with food production and the International Day of Forests today is celebrating the crucial roles of forests in food security, nutrition and livelihoods.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21 the International Day of Forests in 2012. The day celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests.
On each International Day of Forests, countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organise activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns.
In addition to providing food, fuel, income and employment, forests support soil fertility, protect water resources and offer habitats for biodiversity, including vital pollinators. They are essential for the survival of forest-dependent communities, particularly indigenous peoples, and contribute to climate change mitigation by storing carbon.
FAO is also celebrating its 80th anniversary this year and international events will mark the occasion by showcasing actions and best practices that promote a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food future.
Forests provide food, medicine and livelihoods for billions of people. More than five billion people around the world use forest and non-timber forest products for food, medicine and livelihoods.
Forests and trees are a rich source of nuts, fruits, seeds, roots, tubers, leaves, mushrooms, honey, wild meat and insects, providing essential nutrients to our dietary intake.
More than two billion people rely on wood and other traditional fuels for cooking
Wood fuel has been used since ancient times and is still commonly used by rural households as a source of cooking energy to make food edible.
Forests support farming by providing homes for pollinators, helping keep the soil healthy, retaining water, offering food and shade for livestock, regulating temperatures, and acting as natural barriers against the wind for crops, as well as enhancing rainfall for agricultural needs.
Forested watersheds provide freshwater to more than 85% of the world’s major cities and sustainable forest management has the potential to enhance water quality for over 1.7 billion people residing in large urban areas, contributing to their food and water security.
FAO says forests serve as food safety nets in times of crisis. They support food security and diversify incomes during shocks, such as failed harvests or conflicts, to help ensure the survival of communities when usual food sources are unavailable.
Forests support rural incomes, boosting livelihoods and nutrition. In some countries and regions, forests and trees provide around 20% of the income for rural
Forested watersheds provide freshwater to more than 85% percent of the world’s major cities and sustainable forest management has the potential to enhance water quality for over 1.7 billion people residing in large urban areas, contributing to their food and water security.
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