Our natural forests are an important part of British Columbia's environment, economy and social fabric. More than a third of our planet's land mass is covered by forests, which absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into our atmosphere. 

According to the United Nations, "forests are the most biologically diverse ecosystems on land, home to more than 80 per cent of the terrestrial species of animals, planets and insects."

Deforestation across the globe accounts for 12 to 20 per cent of the total greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. 

A healthy, productive forest base plays a key part in British Columbia's natural economy and plays a large role in meeting our provincial climate change targets.

The UN proclaimed March 21 as International Day of Forests, "to raise awareness of the importance of forests to people and their vital role in poverty eradication, environmental sustainability and food security. Sustainable management of all types of forests are at the heart of unlocking challenges of conflict-affected, developing and developed countries, for the benefit of current and future generations."

The BCGEU invites all our members and the public to join us in recognizing and celebrating the 6th annual International Day of Forests on March 21.

• Click here for more information.

http://www.un.org/en/events/forestsday/ 

UWU/MoveUP