International Year of Forests 2011
BLOG: International Year of Forests – Images by Art Wolfe
A reminder that we are half way through the International Year of Forests – 2011. Let us not forget the importance of preserving and maintaining this invaluable resource. Here are some important statistics to consider:
– The livelihoods of over 1.6 billion people depend on forests.
– Forests are home to 80% of our terrestrial biodiversity.
– Trade in forest products was estimated at $327 billion in 2004.
– Forests are home to 300 million people around the world.
– 30% of forests are used for production of wood and non-wood products.
– Forests cover 31% of total land area.
– Primary forests account for 36% of forest area.
In the Pacific Northwest, efforts to curb logging to save the spotted owl and critical salmon runs from extinction have resulted in creating a huge carbon sink—larger trees and forests store massive amounts of carbon that would otherwise contributed to greenhouse gases. For once, unintended consequences are terrific for the environment!
Seattle Times Article: http://tinyurl.com/4xnlhkg
Forests have always been very important to me as I grew up in one and have done much traveling in them. It is commendable the way you keep up on various celebrations, whether they are one day, a weekend, a month or a year. I like that you are continually involved and assisting the various themes with your work, particularly in conservation. Excellent post.
Thanks David. Forests simply matter.