Forests are at the heart of a green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic
Forests are at the heart of a green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic – that was the key message that emerged during the 200-day countdown at the 15th World Forest Congress.
The event, organized by the Korea Forest Service on November 9, drew international attention to the upcoming 2021 congress in Seoul, with the theme “Building a green, healthy and resilient future with forests”.
In a video message, Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged nations to ‘take decisive action’ against climate change, fueled by deforestation. He noted that “COVID-19 could be one of nature’s responses to the climate crisis.”
In sy opening ceremony says Park Chong, the Minister of Korean Forest Service, said: “Forests can be an essential solution to the climate crisis … The world must work together to bring about sustainable development.”
Julius Chupezi Tieguhong, chief forestry officer of the African Natural Development Center for African Development Bank, urged leaders to respond to the socio-economic impact of forest destruction. “It requires sustainable solutions at local, national, regional and international levels,” he said.
“The effectiveness of the desired climate outcomes will depend on adequate allocation of human, financial and material resources, in which case the role of multilateral development (institutions) cannot be underestimated,” he added.
As countries respond to challenges posed by the pandemic, they also recognize the opportunities offered by such a crisis to shift the global development paradigm to greater sustainability and greener, more inclusive economies.
Sustainable forest management can play an important role in building resilient economies and societies that can withstand pandemics, climate change and other global challenges.
The World Forestry Congress, the largest and most important event of the world’s forestry sector, is held every six years. It will take place May 24-28, 2021.