United Nations Forum on Forests

Why in news?

• The eighteenth session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF18) was held in New York from May 8-12, 2023.

About United Nations Forum on Forests:

• The UNFF is an intergovernmental policy forum which promotes “management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests and to strengthen long-term political commitment to this end.
• UNFF was established in 2000 by the UN Economic and Social Council.
• The Forum has universal membership, and is composed of all Member States of the United Nations.

Highlights of UNFF18:

• Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) in Tropical Region:
  • In a recent development, experts have underscored the significance of practicing SFM in tropical regions.
  • With the surge in bioenergy consumption since 2013, there has been a mounting strain on forests.
  • By implementing sustainable practices, such as selective logging and reforestation, the long-term health and vitality of these forests can be safeguarded.
• Forest Ecosystems and Energy:
  • Forestry director of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighted the significant contribution of forest ecosystems to renewable energy requirements.
  • Over five billion people worldwide benefit from non-timber forest products, with forests providing 55% of these renewable energy needs.
• Forests and Climate Change Mitigation:
  • The Emissions Gap Report's findings underscore the immense climate mitigation potential that forests hold.
  • Through processes such as carbon sequestration, forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing substantial amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
  • By preserving and sustainably managing forests, nations can leverage this natural capacity to help bridge the emissions gap and achieve climate targets.
  • Forests have the potential for reducing 5 gigatonnes of emissions.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding ‘United Nations Forum on Forests’:

1. The forum comprises of all member states of the United Nations.

2. It was established by the UN Economic and Social Council.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer