2025 International Day of Forest Background and its Theme

Every year since 2013, the International Day of Forest is observed across the world on 21st March. The day seeks to raise awareness of the world to strengthen the conservation, sustainable management, and development of all types of forests and trees outside forests for the benefit of current and future generations.

According to an United Nations estimate around 1 crore or 10 million hectare of forest land is being lost annually across the globe. 

Underlying the importance of forests and their resources for the vulnerable communities of the world, the United Nations reports that in crisis situations, forests provide up to 20% of family income in rural areas.

Background to the International Day of Forest 

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations at its 16th annual Conference held in November 1971, decided to observe 21st March as World Forestry Day. 

Later the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in December 2012 to observe 21st March as the International Day of Forestry.

Since 2013, 21st March has been observed as the International Day of Forest 

Theme of the 2025 International Day of Forest 

The theme for the 2025 International Day of Forest is ‘Forests and Food".

The theme underscores the role played by forests in providing food, nutrition, and livelihoods to humans.

The theme also seeks to raise awareness about the threat faced by forests due to degradation and human encroachment.

It calls for action to harness technological innovations for our forests to address the growing threat of deforestation, habitat degradation, and climate change.

Importance of Forest 

• Forests not only provide food, fuel, income, and employment but are also home to a variety of animal species that support biodiversity and are important pollinators. 
• Around five billion people in the world use forest and non-timber forest products for food, medicine, and livelihoods
• Woods obtained from forests are the sole source of cooking fuel for around 2 billion people in the world.
• It is a source of wild meat for indigenous people and rural communities.
• Forested watersheds provide freshwater to more than 85 percent of the world's major cities.

Also Read: 

18th India State of Forest Report 2023, Know its Main Points