During the next two days, 21 March and 22 March, we will be celebrating the International Day of Forests (IDF) and World Water Day (WWD) respectively. Forests and water are intrinsically linked. At FAO we work on the forest-water-nexus through numerous programmes and projects that bring together science, policy and implementation on the ground to ensure the sustainable management of our natural resources.

Forests regulate the water cycle by sustaining water supply and maintaining high quality of water resources. In fact, forested watersheds supply approximately 75% of accessible freshwater and water to 90% of the largest cities globally.

Therefore, it is important to raise awareness and teach about the conservation and sustainable management of our forests and water resources.

International Day of Forest 2019 – March 21^st

The IDF was proclaimed by UN in 2012 and aims to raise awareness about the importance of all types of forests. On the International Day of Forests, the countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns.

The theme for IDF 2019 is Forests and Education, and it is based on 5 main key messages:

1. Understanding our forests and keeping them healthy is crucial for our future;
2. You’re never too young to start learning about trees;

3. Both modern and traditional knowledge are key to keeping forests healthy;

4. Investing in forestry education can change the world for the better;

5. Women and men should have equal access to forest education.

 World Water Day 2019 – March 22^nd

The WWD was adopted in 1993 by the UN’s General Assembly. This year’s theme ‘Leaving no one behind’, is the central promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Unfortunately, more than 2 billion people currently live without safe access to water at home. This evidences the need to work for leaving no one behind, focusing our efforts towards including people who have been marginalized or ignored. Water services must meet the needs of these groups and their voices must be heard in decision-making processes. Regulatory and legal frameworks must recognize the right to water for all people, and sufficient funding must be fairly and effectively targeted at those who need it most.

Let’s take this opportunity to create a conversation around the forest-water-nexus. We invite everyone to raise awareness about forests, which includes education on forests and water, and their importance for a sustainable development that leaves no one behind.