International Day of Forests 2025: Forests for Life - a sustainable future for forests and food security in Asia and the Pacific

 

This year’s International Day of Forests honors the theme “Forests and Foods”, celebrating the crucial role of forests in food security, nutrition and livelihoods.

The link between forests and food is particularly evident in Asia and the Pacific, where tropical forests alone boast the highest diversity of forest foods globally (over 2 000 species). Millions of people across the region rely on forest foods as their primary source of nutrition, income, and cultural identity. Yet, most of the region’s forest ecosystems and the vital services they provide are under threat from human activity, compromising their livelihoods and food security. Recognizing and strengthening the role of healthy and resilient forests in agrifood systems is key to ensure these vital ecosystems are protected and sustainably managed, so that future generations can enjoy the abundance and nurturing benefits of its forests.

The FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific is pleased to announce the hosting of the online event: “Forests for Life: a sustainable future for forests and food security in Asia and the Pacific” to celebrate this year’s International Day of Forests. The webinar will be held on 21 March 2025 from 10:00 to 11:00 am Bangkok time (GMT+7).

The event will highlight the vital role of forests in food production, security and nutrition by showcasing how they contribute to sustainable and resilient agrifood systems, livelihoods, and biodiversity in Asia and the Pacific, as well as share best practices and innovations from across the region, including successful initiatives in agroforestry, sustainable harvesting, and the integration of traditional knowledge in sustainable management practices.

Register Here

 

 Programme

10:00	What’s on Your Plate? A celebration of forest foods across Asia and the Pacific.
10:05	Opening Remarks
	International Day of Forests 2025: video
10:10	Lighting Talks Fast-paced spotlights of successful, innovative or inspiring stories on the theme of this year’s International Day of Forests: “Forests and Foods”.   Lighting talks will be followed by a moderated discussion to interact with guest speakers.
10:45	Keynote presentation Contribution of Forests to Food Security and Nutrition  in Asia and the Pacific.
10:55	Closing Remarks