2011 is International Year of Forests!
The United Nations designated 2011 as International Year of Forests to promote broader understanding of the importance of forests, and to bolster global efforts to promote sustainable forest management and conservation.
The American Forest Foundation is playing a lead role in developing and facilitating a variety of U.S. celebrations throughout the year. Kicking it off, AFF’s nationwide network of Project Learning Tree environmental educators has compiled and decorated a “Forest Box” from each state to showcase the unique characteristics of America’s woodlands.
These boxes will be displayed at a variety of events across the country throughout 2011 – the first being in New York City at the end of this month in conjunction with the UN Forum on Forests meeting and launch of 2011 International Year of Forests.
Forests are an important teaching tool, and these boxes help us experience America’s forests. The boxes have been compiled by students, of various grade levels, and others passionate about their state’s forests. They include natural objects (leaves, nuts, cones, etc.) from different tree species, and examples of tree and wood products we use every day.
Drawings, photographs, sound and video recordings, and student written descriptions show the components of forest ecosystems – in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Through these boxes we learn who owns and manages forests; the benefits we get from forests – like clean air, water, and recreation; how individuals and communities use, enjoy, and depend on forests; and what the threats are to forests.
2011 International Year of Forests will be dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges facing the world’s forests today, promoting dialogue about forests and people, and calling to action much needed forest conservation. The global campaign will aim to give people more motivation to help sustain and manage forests for the future. The American Forest Foundation will focus on the state of America’s family forests, and the role of environmental education in helping inform the next generation about the value of America’s forests.
