21 March – UN International Day of Forests

This day provides us and the global community with an occasion to raise awareness of the importance of all types of woodlands and trees, and to celebrate the ways in which they sustain and protect us.

The following You Tube Clip offers a few moments reflection on the gift of trees and forests:

On this day we recall that apart from providing fruits, some medicines and nuts, forests and trees store carbon which helps mitigate the impact of climate change in and around urban area,s thus saving energy and cooling the air.

Trees also prove to be excellent air filters and help reduce noise pollution from nearby roads and industrial areas. Around the world trees provide people with wood fuel for cooking and heating as well as for building homes and other structures.

Well managed forests and trees in and around cities and towns provide habitats, food and protection for many other species of plants and animals thus helping maintain and increase biodiversity.

Urban green spaces which include trees contribute to healthier lifestyles and  improved mental health while simultaneously  providing places in which people can socialize.

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

Joyce Kilmer