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Outreach

International Day of Forests 2019

UNHQ event programme
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The theme of the 2019 International Day of Forests celebration is “Forests and Education”. Forests are among the world’s most productive renewable natural resources, providing sustainable paths to development as a key driver of economic growth while providing livelihoods for hundreds of millions of people, particularly in rural areas. Education is a key enabler for sustainable development, and for the sustainable management of forests. Learning about forests, and their sustainable management is not just good for the environment, it is the foundation for sustainable livelihood and communities.Throughout human history, forests and trees have been connected to learning, wisdom and enlightenment. Forests and trees have served as outdoor classrooms, providing healthy learning-locations for outdoor-education and fostering environmental stewardship in children from an early age.The theme is of particular relevance to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and SDG15 and SDG4 in particular.

Featured Speakers

  • Ms. Maria-Francesca Spatolisano, Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Inter-Agency Affairs
  • H. E. Ambassador Ms. Mona Juul Vice-President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  • A multi media presentation by Lower Eastside Girls Club, New York, USA | Las Fotos Project, Los Angeles, USA | Club Balam, Chiapas, Mexico
  • Ms. Carla Mucavi, Director, FAO Liaison Office to the United Nations in New York
  • Mr. David O’Connor, Permanent Observer of IUCN to the United Nations in New York
  • Mr. Zhang Wei, Director General, Three-North Shelterbelt Development Bureau, China
  • Dr. Erika S. Svendsen, Co-Director, New York City Urban Field Station

Global celebration

Every year, the Forum secretariat holds a special event to celebrate the International Day of Forests at United Nations Headquarters in New York which attract participation from representatives of Member States, regional organizations, members of the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and non-governmental organizations.