Forests cover 31 percent of the world’s land surface, store an estimated 295 gigatonnes of carbon  - in the living biomass - and are home to the majority of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity.

Forests are a source of fibre, fuel, food and fodder, and they provide livelihoods for millions of people, including many of the world’s poorest. Some 2.4 billion people use wood-based energy for cooking. Forests help mitigate climate change and improve soil, air and water quality. If sustainably managed, forests are also a source of renewable raw materials, making a crucial contribution to building circular economies.