International Day of Forests

March 21 is the United Nations’ (UN) International Day of Forests, which promotes the importance of forests and trees in our lives. The day addresses issues such as deforestation.

Celebrate International Day of Forests

The UN works with governments, community organizations, and the general public to promote both local and global activities for the International Day of Forests. Activities include:

• Tree planting campaigns.
• Photo exhibits that portray the importance forests and trees.
• Sharing infographics, videos, news and messages via social and other media.

Public Life

International Day of Forests is a global observance and not a public holiday.

About International Day of Forests

Forests cover about one third of the world’s land mass. Roughly 1.6 billion people, including more than 2000 indigenous cultures, depend on forests for their livelihood. Forests are vital to the planet for many reasons, including:

• Providing shelter for more than half of the terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects.
• Contributing to the balance of oxygen, carbon dioxide and humidity in the air.
• Protecting watersheds, which supply fresh water to rivers.

The UN first celebrated the International Day of Forests on March 21, 2013. This initiative follows from the International Year of Forests.

Did You Know?

Deforestation accounts for 12 to 20 percent of the global greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming, according to the UN.

While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. If you find an error, please let us know.