Half of the World’s forests have already disappeared, and only 20% of what remains is intact. As it stands, the World loses more than 23 million acres of forest area every year.
The window of opportunity to reverse deforestation and protect the World’s remaining intact forests is shrinking.
Not only does this have huge consequences for the climate and for wildlife, but it is a major Human rights concern: some 1.2 to 1.7 billion people worldwide depend on forests for the livelihood.
The causes of deforestation vary from region to region, but have one important thing in common: us.
Human activity is behind all major causes of forest destruction, whether its to support the industries that make products we use every day or make space to grow our food.
Meeting the World’s increasing demand for food and other land-based products will require highly productive landscapes that are managed sustainably.
Forests play key roles in the water cycle, soil conservation and habitat protection, including for pollinators. Their sustainable management is crucial for sustainable agriculture and food security.
Agriculture remains the most significant driver of global deforestation, and there is an urgent need to promote more positive interactions between agriculture and forestry.
Improved coordination is required between policies on forests, agriculture, food, land use, and rural development.