The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is gearing up to commemorate International Day of Forests 2025 on Friday, March 21 with a series of events set to take place in Rome. This year’s theme, ‘forests and foods’, will spotlight the pivotal role that forests and trees play in enhancing global food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Despite their significant contributions in providing food, fuel, income, and employment, as well as supporting biodiversity, soil fertility, and water resources, the FAO highlighted that the role of forests in food systems often goes unrecognized.
The FAO emphasized that this year’s International Day of Forests seeks to bring attention to the vital link between forests and food security, underscoring how forests aid in sustainable food production, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. The celebrations are slated to unfold at both the FAO headquarters near the Circus Maximus in Rome and at Villa Doria Pamphili. A special ceremony at the latter location will spotlight the indispensable connection between forests and food security. Additionally, a collaborative ceremony with the municipality of Rome is scheduled to be held at the Global Library of Trees and Flowers, FAO Park, showcasing around 150 trees and plants from various regions worldwide.
International Day of Forests is poised to be a significant occasion as it also marks the first major celebration of FAO’s 80th anniversary. The event will feature addresses from FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu and Councillor for Agriculture, Environment, and Waste Cycle, Sabrina Alfonsi. Furthermore, FAO will host a technical session delving into how forests contribute to food security and nutrition on a global scale. Experts will delve into topics such as forest-based foods, the significance of indigenous knowledge, and innovative solutions for fostering sustainable food systems.
In a related context, Tree Week Ireland recently observed its National Tree Week on Sunday, March 9, spearheaded by the National Tree Council of Ireland with backing from Coillte. This annual event serves as a platform to celebrate the crucial role that trees, forests, and woodlands play in shaping a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future for Ireland. Coillte made a significant contribution by donating 150,000 native tree saplings to schools and community groups across the nation, underscoring the importance of trees as a renewable and sustainable resource.
