In the Media
UN forum brings attention to forest conservation worldwide
February 09, 2012
Women News Network
As the International Year of Forests 2011 draws to a close in February 2012, the Director of UN Forum on Forest Secretariat, Ms. Jan L. McAlpine, shares her thoughts about an eventful year. Thanks to the year, she says a clear message has been conveyed that “…all 7 billion people on earth have their economic, spiritual and physical health tied to forests.”
In an interview with UN DESA News with Ms. McAlpine, who leads the work of the UN Forum on Forests Secretariat, talks include highlights of the year and the work of the UN Secretariat is now doing to promote the management, conservation and sustainable development of forests around the world. She underscores “…that people play a critical role in ensuring the well being of the forests that sustain us everyday.” Needs for a cross-sectoral and cross-institutional strategy to achieve sustainable development is also part of the picture.
“One of the key challenges is figuring out how to integrate poverty alleviation and food security in the way we treat policy and address issues on forests. You’ve probably heard us state, on several occasions, the overwhelming fact: 1.6 billion people rely on forests for their livelihoods, food and multitude of wood and non-wood products they provide. We are constantly rediscovering the extent to which forests contribute to national development, poverty reduction and food security. What is missing is a cross-sectoral, 360 degree perspective on forests, one that factors in the simple truth that forest priorities will always come down to the crucial relationship between forests and people.” She said.
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Keywords: Forest, UN, UNFF