by Charles Gladden

BELMOPAN, Mon. Mar. 24, 2025

The Belize Forest Department joined other nations worldwide to celebrate the International Day of Forests 2025 on Friday, March 21.

The theme this year, “Forests and Food,” recognizes the importance of forests in food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Apart from providing food, fuel, income, and employment, forests support soil fertility, protect water resources, and offer habitats for biodiversity, including vital pollinators.

Data from the Belize Forest Department suggest that in developed countries, up to 25% of all medicinal drugs are plant-based; in developing countries, the contribution is as high as 80%. Our forests provide those essential medicines for our survival and sustenance, as well as food security, climate regulation, and economic stability.

In Belize there’s a direct connection with the forest as it is used for traditional medicine, and cultural and spiritual practices, while serving as stewards of our forest resources.

To observe the International Day of Forests, the Belize Forest Department with the Belmopan City Council, the National Climate Change Office, the Protected Areas Conservation Trust, and the Department of the Environment intend to plant timber, fruit trees, and ornamental plants in key areas to restore and beautify green spaces.

Also, the Belize Forest Department hosted a photo competition using this year’s theme under three categories – Youth, Amateur, and Professional categories – and a high school trivia competition.

The International Day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012.