Forests cover 30.7 percent of the Earth’s surface. In addition to ensuring food security and shelter, they are essential to combat climate change, protect biodiversity and the homes of residents who live in vulnerable areas.
By protecting forests, we will also be able to strengthen the management of natural resources and increase the productivity of the land. Currently, 13 million hectares of forest are lost each year, while the ongoing degradation of drylands has led to the deforestation of 3.6 billion hectares globally.
Although up to 15% of the land is currently under protection, biodiversity is still at risk. Deforestation caused by human activities and climate change pose major challenges to sustainable development and have affected the lives of millions of people in the fight against poverty.
Efforts are being made to manage forests and combat deforestation. International agreements are currently being implemented that promote the equitable use of resources. Investments are also being secured.
