Forests cover 30 percent of the Earth’s land area. An estimated 1.6 billion people, or 25 percent of the world’s population, depend on forests for subsistence, livelihood, employment, and income generation.

In recognition of the significance of forests, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21 as the International Day of Forests, to be celebrated around the world to raise awareness and promote action on forest issues. The theme for 2019 is “Forests and Education.”

The UN has recognized that private business activities — investment and innovation — are major drivers of productivity, inclusive economic growth, and job creation centered around forests. Private international capital flows, particularly foreign direct investment, along with a stable international system, are vital complements to national forest development around the world.

The UN also recognizes forests provide essential ecosystem services. Timber, food, fuel, and non-wood products contribute to soil and water conservation and clean air. Forests prevent land degradation and reduce the risk of floods, landslides, avalanches, droughts, dust-storms, sandstorms, and other natural disasters.

The UN estimates that forests are home to 80 percent of all terrestrial species. When sustainably managed, all types of forests are healthy, productive, resilient, and renewable ecosystems, providing essential goods and services to people worldwide.