UN FORUM ON FORESTS (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: Delegates at the 19th United Nations Forum for Forests (UNFF) recently deliberated on a draft underscoring the vital role of forests in combatting climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation.

UN Forum on Forests

• About: It advocates for the management, conservation, and sustainable development of various forest ecosystems worldwide.
• Establishment: 2000 by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
• Headquarters: New York
• Annual High-Level Dialogue: The Forum convenes annually at the UN Headquarters in New York, gathering representatives from all member states and forest-related agencies. 

o It conducts high-level dialogue on technical matters in odd years and policy matters in even years.

• Objective: UNFF serves as a key platform within the UN system for addressing forest-related issues.
• Membership: Member States of the United Nations and specialized agencies, fostering global collaboration and cooperation in forest management.
• India's Role: India holds a significant position in the UNFF as a founding member.

Recommendation of India

• Forest Conservation: India has achieved significant advancements in forest conservation and sustainable forest management over the past fifteen years.

o These efforts have led to a consistent increase in forest cover across the country.

• Milestones of Projects: The recent celebrations marking 50 years of Project Tiger and 30 years of Project Elephant highlight India's commitment to species conservation and habitat protection.
• International Big Cat Alliance: India emphasized the creation of the IBCA, aimed at protecting and conserving the seven big cat species worldwide through collaborative international efforts.
• Green Credit Program: India introduced the 'Green Credit Program', incentivizing entities to engage in tree plantation and restoration of degraded forest lands, thereby strengthening climate action initiatives.