Forests play an important role in the balance of ecosystems. As the first carbon sink, they filter 75% of fresh water and host 80% of terrestrial biodiversity. Yet they are still threatened by deforestation. After the UN Decade for Ecosystem Restoration (which we told you about) here) Reforest’Action invites everyone to reduce their footprint on the forest, on the occasion ofa forest month† The goal: to become aware of the impact of our consumption and production methods on the forest.
Shampoos, cosmetics, foodstuffs, furniture, fuel… Have you ever wondered what their impact is on the world’s forests? Throughout March, Reforest’Action gives you the chance to understand better how the products you use every day can contribute to forest degradation or deforestation. You can also find out how save them by consuming more responsibly and by paying more attention to the production methods of your everyday products.
Without a doubt, discover the must-see events to trade at your scale, wherever you are:
- 12.03: Participatory planting in Rungis (94)
- 12.03: Participatory planting in Igny (91)
- From 14.03: Connected challenges during Forest Month
- 17.03: Webinar “Building a forest strategy in line with its challenges – the example of Maison Ruinart”
- 21.03: International Day of Forests
- 24.03: Global Forest Summit, international event dedicated to forests
- 03.29: Webinar “How can I act at my level to combat deforestation? †
An awareness kit is also available to educate your loved ones about forest conservation on your networks! You can also take a look at the Forest Month website and find useful information for: understand the impact of our consumption patterns on forest conservation† For example, you will learn that when we talk about deforestation, we are actually talking “loss of forest area to non-forest activities” such as agriculture or urbanization.
Imported deforestation at the heart of forest conservation issues
Globally, more than half of deforestation is directly linked to convert forests into farmland (crops and pastures), according to the latest report from the FAO, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In other words, deforestation is directly linked to the production of raw materials such as soybeans, palm oil, livestock, cocoa or wood. In France, nearly a third of imports come from countries at high risk of deforestation (see infographic on annual French imports above). When it contributes to deforestation, forest degradation or the conversion of natural ecosystems, it is referred to as: “imported deforestation”† A problem that will be discussed in full during the Month of the Forest.
Did you know ? Processed products such as chocolate (made from cocoa) can be responsible for imported deforestation, according to the Ministry of Ecological Transition. When this is the case, their consumption can lead to: “heavy deforestation that threatens to endanger the balance of our natural ecosystems in a sustainable way”, Reforest’Action warning. The solution to continue to enjoy your piece of chocolate during the 10:00 break? Consume less processed chocolate products and indulge in certified chocolate from an environmental and social point of view by examining the Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, Fairtrade or Organic Farming labels on the packaging of your tablets! This is one of Reforest’Action’s many tips for “reducing the ecological footprint of the forest”.
Want contribute to the conservation of forests at your level † Meeting on website of the forest month to discover the detailed program and understand how reduce your forest footprint †