International Day of Forests

International Day of Forests History

The International Day of Forests is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of all types of forests and trees. Spearheaded by the United Nations (UN), the purpose of this day is to celebrate and recognise the vital role forests play in maintaining our planet's overall health. This includes providing essential habitats for wildlife, contributing to climate management by capturing harmful carbon emissions, and supporting human life through resources and ecosystem services.

The concept of an international day dedicated to forests was introduced at the 23rd General Assembly of the European Confederation of Agriculture in 1971. It has since grown into a worldwide event, officially established by the UN in 2012. For New Zealand, a country renowned for its diverse and iconic flora, the International Day of Forests holds significant importance. As a nation, New Zealanders have continuously demonstrated their commitment to ecological preservation. The Indigenous Māori approach to forestry, which promotes conservation and sustainable utilisation, shapes this commitment.

New Zealand celebrates the International Day of Forests with numerous local initiatives. Activities range from tree planting events to educational programmes, spreading knowledge about sustainable forest management. While acknowledging the global concerns of deforestation and climate change, this day also provides an opportunity to pay tribute to New Zealand's unique forest ecosystems – from the towering Kauri and Rimu forests in the North to the Beech forests of the South. International Day of Forests occurs each year on March 21st.

Facts about International Day of Forests

• The theme for International Day of Forests in 2025 was Forests and Food, and in 2024 it was Forests and innovation: New solutions for a better world. In 2023 the theme was Forests and health.
• According to the World Bank, forested watersheds and wetlands supply 75% of the world’s accessible fresh water. This water is made available for domestic, agricultural, industrial, and ecological use.
• According to the UN, approximately 1.6 billion people worldwide depend on forests for their livelihood.
• Many of the birds found in New Zealand's forests are not seen anywhere else in the world. This includes the flightless Kiwi, a national symbol of New Zealand. Other unique species include the kea, the world's only alpine parrot, and the kākāpō, the world's heaviest parrot.
• Kauri, one of the world's mightiest trees, are native to New Zealand forests. They can live to over 1,000 years and gain impressive girths. During International Day of Forests, many New Zealanders participate in efforts to prevent Kauri dieback disease, a significant issue for these trees.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Day of Forests

Top things to do in NZ for International Day of Forests

• Watch the 2020 International Day of Forest's virtual program if you missed it.
• Share your favorite photo of a forest or plant with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN by emailing it to idf@fao.org. The UN will add it to a combined gallery of everyone’s pictures around the world!
• Visit Waipoua Forest: It's one of the best places in New Zealand to celebrate International Day of Forests. Explore ancient Kauri trees and the unique bird species that find shelter here.
• Read a book to learn more about Forests in New Zealand:
  New Zealand Forests and Shrubs - by John Dawson
  Native Trees of New Zealand - by John T Salmon