International Day of Forests 2016

International Day of Forests 2016

Posted by Connor Whelan on 21st Mar 2016

Whilst it may not be one of the more glamorous and well-known “days” we have told you about here at The Great Projects, it is one of the most important. International Day of Forests takes place every year on the 21st of March and it aims to raise awareness of the importance of the different types of forests found all around the world.

Thick Forest

Forests currently cover one-third of the earth’s surface and they play a crucial role as the most biologically diverse ecosystems on land. They are home to more than 80% of all of the terrestrial species of animals, plants, and insects and they also provide homes, jobs, and security for many forest-dwelling communities the world over.

Forests are incredible places but people simply don’t know too much about them. They help to sustain wildlife and plant life, but did you know that they also play a crucial role in human populations too? For example, forested watersheds hold around 75% of the world’s fresh water supply, and almost one-third of the world’s biggest cities rely on forests to get their drinking water.

International Day of Forests

However, even with all of these priceless ecological, environmental and health benefits, deforestation continues at an unsustainable rate. Every year around 13 million hectares (or around 13 million rugby pitches) are cut down to supply the timber and palm oil trade amongst others. This simply cannot continue and something needs to be done. Let’s all use today to raise awareness and get everybody talking about how we can help the forests!

If you want the chance to volunteer with endangered animals in their forest homes before it is too late, then take a look here at some of our projects.


Share this Article...

Share this article with your friends and followers by using the social media buttons below.


Leave a Comment...

Wanting to add something to this story or just let us know your thoughts? Just leave your comments below. Please be aware that all comments will be moderated: abusive behaviour or self-promotion will not be allowed.

500 characters remaining

Has this blog inspired you to volunteer? If so, why not enquire today? Simply fill out an enquiry form, and allow a member of our travel team to assist with your query! Please note that blog comments are not monitored by the travel team, so any questions related to bookings may be missed.


Featured Blog Arcticles


Featured Videos


Experience The Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary

See what you could get up to as a volunteer at the Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary! This volunteer project offers you the chance to get up close and personal with some of the country's most iconic species.

Discover The Great White Shark Project

Come face to face with one of the world’s most misunderstood predators whilst aiding great white shark conservation. As a volunteer, not only will you get the incredible opportunity to dive with sharks, but you will also assist the team in raising awareness of the great white as you work alongside tourists and local school children to provide them with knowledge of the local environment and the importance of living in harmony with South Africa’s marine life.

Volunteers Review Their Experience at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Volunteers talk about their recent experience at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary in Borneo.

Latest Blog Arcticles


International Women's Day - The Most Inspirational Women In Conservation

International Women's Day - The Most Inspirational Women In Conservation

Join us in celebrating International Women's Day, as we...

The Celebration Of World Wildlife Day 2023

The Celebration Of World Wildlife Day 2023

The 3rd of March is an opportunity to celebrate the...

New Arrival at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

New Arrival at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

1-year-old baby orangutan, Iqo, has been freed from illegal...

Achievements at the Samboja Lestari Orangutan Project in 2022

Achievements at the Samboja Lestari Orangutan Project in 2022

After 2 difficult years, we finally welcomed volunteers...

Merle’s Orangutan Experience at Samboja

Merle’s Orangutan Experience at Samboja

Merle shares her experiences from her time spent...

An Invasive Species: The Lionfish

An Invasive Species: The Lionfish

Many invasive species have made their way to all corners of...

Sun Bear Update From Samboja Lestari

Sun Bear Update From Samboja Lestari

After a lot of hard work by the June 2022 volunteer group,...

The Latest From The Great Orangutan Project!

The Latest From The Great Orangutan Project!

The Great Projects volunteer coordinator, Jess, is...


Where you can go
Contact Info
UK Office
The Great Traveller Ltd,
3 Dairy Yard
Star Street
Ware, Hertfordshire
SG12 7DX
United Kingdom

Opening hours:
   Mon-Fri 8:30am–5:30pm
   Sat 10am-4pm

T: +44(0) 208 885 4987