- This event has passed.
International Day of Forests
Forests, crucial ecosystems for food security
Forests, pillars of global food security and nutrition, are the livelihoods of millions of families. They provide essential foods such as fruits, seeds, roots and wild meat, fundamental resources for indigenous and rural communities.
But its function goes far beyond. Forests are a vital source of energy, providing wood for cooking, playing a key role in agriculture by hosting pollinators and acting in soil enrichment, climate regulation and biodiversity conservation. In addition, forested watersheds supply freshwater to more than 85% of the world’s major cities. In crisis situations, forests become an economic and food lifeline, providing up to 20% of family income in rural areas, guaranteeing healthy diets.
But these ecosystems are in danger.
We lose 10 million hectares annually due to deforestation and approximately 70 million hectares affected by fires. Protecting and restoring our forests is urgent and necessary: the well-being of the planet and future generations depends on them.
Join the cause and defend the theme of International Day of Forests 2025: “Forests and Food”. The future of food begins in the forests!
Celebrating forests and foods
In 2025, forests and foods is the theme for the day, celebrating the crucial roles of forests in food security, nutrition and livelihoods. In addition to providing food, fuel, income and employment, forests support soil fertility, protect water resources, and offer habitats for biodiversity, including vital pollinators. They are essential for the survival of forest-dependent communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples, and contribute to climate change mitigation by storing carbon.
FAO is also proudly celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2025 and FAO International Day of Forests events will mark this occasion by showcasing actions and best practices that promote a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food future.
How will you mark the day?
- Enter the Forest and Foods photo contest.
- Share the video, forest fact animations, logo and banners – available in multiple languages. Check out the International Day of Forest social media kit for more resources.
- Join the conversation on social media using the #ForestDay hashtag. Pass on some of this year’s key messages or take a photo of your favourite forest and share online.
- Organize or join events celebrating forests: tree plantings, symposiums, art exhibitions, photo competitions or host a student debate.
- Don’t forget to tell us about it at IDF@fao.org and send us photos so we can add them to the gallery of events happening around the world.