Forest education

Why forest education is important

People are increasingly disconnected from nature, and there is a widespread lack of awareness and understanding of forests and their benefits. By educating people about forests and sustainability, we can create a pathway towards a greener, more resilient future.

But a global assessment by FAO, the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and the International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO) found that, in many countries, forest education in primary and secondary schools is insufficient.

Those who work in forests, from private owners and companies to local communities, need information and training to manage the many challenges arising in the sector. Forest education can help create a generation capable of managing forests sustainably and thereby foster more inclusive, resilient and sustainable societies and a healthier planet.

FAO's work

FAO, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL), has promoted forest education through two recent projects:

The Global Forest Education Project

Led by FAO, ITTO and IUFRO, this project focused on enhancing efforts in forest education at the national and local levels in developing countries, including through regional assessments and a global assessment of the status of forest education.

Forests for a Sustainable Future: Educating Children

The aim of this project, which is expected to finish in 2024, is to improve forest literacy among children aged 9–12 years through interactive forest teaching modules for primary schools.

News

New G20 Garden plants green future in Rome’s ancient heart

10/06/2021

Rome - The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, in co-operation with the Italian Presidency of the G20, today opened Rome's first garden dedicated to the concept of sustainable development.

Boosting education for greener forests

15/10/2020

With every new forest fire or flood, and with every new report on the loss of wildlife or increase in desertification, we are reminded that we urgently need greater attention and efforts to conserve and sustainably manage the world’s forests.

New survey to assess state of forest education worldwide

15/07/2020

FAO, the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and the International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO) today launched a comprehensive survey on forest education across the world.