DUSHANBE, March 20, 2015, Asia-Plus — The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21 the International Day of Forests.
The theme of the 2015 International Day of Forests is “Forests and Climate Change” highlights forest-based solutions to address climate change mitigation and adaptation, and more broadly forests and sustainable development.
“Thanks to its mandate, FAO is very actively involved in Forestry related activities worldwide, and Tajikistan is not an exception. Moreover, FAO is paying special attention to this subject in relationship with Tajikistan authorities, and currently, along with some other activities, is contributing to the development of the National Forestry Development Strategy, which, we hope, will establish a good foundation for sustainable growth of afforested areas”, said FAO Representative in Tajikistan Viorel Gutu.
This global celebration of forests provides a platform to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and of trees outside forests.
Forests cover one third of the Earth”s land mass, performing vital functions around the world. Around 1.6 billion people – including more than 2,000 indigenous cultures – depend on forests for their livelihood.
Forests are the most biologically-diverse ecosystems on land, home to more than 80% of the terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects. They also provide shelter, jobs and security for forest-dependent communities.
They play a key role in our battle in adapting to and mitigating climate change. Forests contribute to the balance of oxygen, carbon dioxide and humidity in the air. They protect watersheds, which supply 75% of freshwater worldwide.
Yet despite all of these priceless ecological, economic, social and health benefits, global deforestation continues at an alarming rate – 13 million hectares of forest are destroyed annually. Deforestation accounts for 12 to 20 percent of the global greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
According to FAO, 2.9% or about 410,000 ha of Tajikistan are forested. Of this 72.4% (297,000 ha) is classified as primary forest, the most bio-diverse and carbon-dense form of forest. Tajikistan had 101,000 ha of planted forest.
