Celebrating our forests on Forest Day

21 March 2023 International Day of Forests

Happy International Day of Forests! Proclaimed by the UN in 2012 and commemorated around the world, this special day celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests.

This year it’s all about Forests and Health. Under the theme “Healthy forests for healthy people”, we cherish forests for the many things they do for our health, and look at ways of keeping our forests healthy.

Forests provide us with medicinal plants to heal, and a billion people worldwide depend on that medicine. They clean our air and filter our water, and provide food to billions. Spending time in forests can also help reduce stress levels, strengthen the immune and cardiovascular systems, and boost our energy, mood, and concentration. That must be a reason to celebrate them!

For this special occasion, we spoke to different people who work with forests on a daily basis, shedding light on their enormous importance for human health and wellbeing.

We hear from Michel Quicheron, a forest bathing guide from Belgium. On his tours through the forest, he helps people appreciate their many physical and mental benefits. We spoke to him about forest bathing and why forests are a place of safety.

We also spoke to Jasmine Doloksaribu, Head of Landscape Conservation at Asia Pulp & Paper Sinar Mas. She shared why healthy forests are so important – to her, for humanity and for future generations.

Our third interview partner is Juan Miguel Villarroel, CEO of the Forestry Association of Navarra, who highlighted the importance of bringing forests and people together. Spending time in the forest does not only benefit our health, but can also generate rural jobs, and raise awareness for the needs of the forest.

Last but not least, PEFC International CEO Michael Berger shares how being in a forest helps him handle stress and everyday challenges.

Forests have impressive effects on our health and beyond. But we also must give something back. On Forest Day and every other day, let’s safeguard our forests, so they can stay healthy too.

If you are interested in forest bathing now, take a virtual forest tour with us. Looking at forest photos can already have a positive effect on our wellbeing.