International Day of Forests
Celebrate the vital role of forests in sustaining life on Earth on International Day of Forests! Forests provide clean air, water, biodiversity, and countless resources. Learn about forest conservation, support reforestation efforts, and discover how forests contribute to climate regulation and human well-being.
About International Day of Forests
Celebrate the vital role of forests in sustaining life on Earth on International Day of Forests! Forests provide clean air, water, biodiversity, and countless resources. Learn about forest conservation, support reforestation efforts, and discover how forests contribute to climate regulation and human well-being.
History & origins
International Day of Forests is a United Nations observance held each year on March 21. The UN General Assembly proclaimed it in 2012 to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and trees outside forests, and the first observance was marked in 2013. It is a global observance rather than a regional holiday, with the United Nations Forum on Forests and the FAO helping promote annual themes and activities.
Why it matters
Forests support climate regulation, biodiversity, water cycles, and livelihoods, so the day highlights a resource that affects both ecosystems and human economies. It also draws attention to deforestation and forest degradation, which threaten food security, carbon storage, and the well-being of forest-dependent communities.
How to celebrate
Learn about forest conservation and the importance of trees. Support organizations working to protect and restore forests. Plant trees in your community or support reforestation projects. Reduce paper consumption and choose sustainable wood products. Visit a forest or nature preserve. Share information about forest conservation on social media.
Facts
- Forests cover about 31% of the Earth's land surface
- Forests are home to 80% of the world's terrestrial biodiversity
- Trees absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen
- Deforestation contributes significantly to climate change
- One mature tree can absorb up to 48 pounds of CO2 per year
Upcoming dates
- Saturday, March 21, 2026
- Sunday, March 21, 2027
- Tuesday, March 21, 2028
- Wednesday, March 21, 2029
- Thursday, March 21, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is International Day of Forests in 2026?
International Day of Forests in 2026 is on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
What is International Day of Forests?
It is a United Nations observance that celebrates forests and the many benefits they provide. The day raises awareness about conservation, restoration, and sustainable forest management.
Who started International Day of Forests?
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed it in 2012. The observance was created as a global awareness day, with the UN Forum on Forests and FAO supporting annual programming.
How do you celebrate International Day of Forests?
You can plant trees, support reforestation, reduce paper waste, and choose sustainably sourced wood products. Visiting a forest, park, or nature preserve is another simple way to mark the day.
Is International Day of Forests an official UN day?
Yes, it is an official United Nations observance. It is not a public holiday, but it is recognized internationally for education and action around forest conservation.
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