Celebrating Forests for People
In the wake of the climate talks in Cancun this past December, 2011 has been named the International Year of Forests by the United Nations, in efforts to raise awareness of the vital role that forests play in reducing carbon emissions.

Did you know that…

  • Forests cover 31% of total land area
  • Primary forests account for 36% of forest area
  • The livelihoods of over 1.6 billion people depend on forests
  • Forests are home to 80% of our terrestrial biodiversity
  • Trade in forest products was estimated at $327 billion in 2004

Deforestation and forest degradation are responsible for one-fifth of carbon emissions released into the environment, greatly impacting the climate and much of the world’s biodiversity. In partnership with its field partner the Tanzania Forest Conservation Group (TFCG), ARC has for two decades contributed to this important goal of rebuilding forests by supporting 146 villages in the Eastern Arc rainforest who are protecting 250,000 acres of sacred forest. Over 1.5 million people call the Eastern Arc rainforests home, making their conservation extremely important. ARC is committed to protecting the 30 percent of Eastern Arc rainforest that remains standing, as well as rebuilding the forest for future generations. To date, ARC’s partnership with TFCG has planted over 10 million trees!

The UN Declaration hopes to spread awareness of the importance of forests through the International Forest Film Festival, which will be held in tandem with Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival in Wyoming this fall. The films will be shown in 162 countries and the winning films will be shown around the world. Other conferences are scheduled throughout the year to address issues of forest sustainability and conservation.

With 2011 being the International Year of Forests, we hope that more people will come to realize the importance of our world’s forests and their vital role in a future of environmental harmony. ARC is committed to supporting grassroots conservation and community development in partnership with local people in Tanzania, with the goal to combat deforestation once and for all.

Leave a comment below to tell us what steps you are taking to help ensure our world’s forests remain standing for future generations.

Sources:

Mongabay

Rainforest Foundation

United Nations