The world’s forests: a wealth of biodiversity

19/03/2020

Forests are home to an estimated 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity. However, this biodiversity is under serious threat from deforestation, forest degradation and climate change.

Managing forests sustainably, and restoring them when needed, is crucial for people, biodiversity and climate.

On the occasion of the International Day of Forests 2020, here’s a selection of recently published and forthcoming publications highlighting FAO’s work and research for a more sustainable use and management of forest resources.

• The State of the World’s Forest Genetic Resources
  This report addresses the conservation, management and sustainable use of forest, tree and other woody plant genetic resources of actual and potential value for human well-being in the broad range of management systems. 
• Trees, forests and land use in drylands: the first global assessment. Full report
  This publication provides a comprehensive overview of forest and tree resources as well as land use in the drylands of the world. 
• Forests: nature-based solutions for water – Unasylva 251
  This issue explores the role of forests as nature-based solutions for water management, highlighting their role as crucial and cost-effective natural infrastructure for the production of an estimated 75 percent of the world’s accessible freshwater resources, on which more than half the world population depends for domestic, agricultural, industrial and environmental purposes.
• The State of The World’s Forests 2018. Forest pathways to sustainable development
  This edition provides new information on the interlinkages between forests and trees and the Sustainable Development Goals, shedding light on their significance for water quality, climate, biodiversity, future energy needs and designing sustainable cities.

Also forthcoming

• Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020. Main report
  The Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020 provides essential information for understanding the extent of forest resources, their condition, management and uses at global, regional and national levels. The report will be launched during the Twenty-fifth Session of the Committee on Forestry, 22−26 June 2020, FAO headquarters, Rome. 
• The State of the World's Forests 2020. Forests, biodiversity and people
  This issue will focus on the correlation between forest health and the sustainable management of their extraordinary biodiversity. The report will be launched in conjunction with the Twenty-fourth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice of the Convention on Biological Diversity, 18−23 May 2020, Montreal.

Additional reading

• The road to restoration. A guide to identifying priorities and indicators for restoration monitoring

Still thirsty for knowledge? Check the latest issue of the FAO publications catalogue.