FAO to launch new forest monitoring tool with Google and host a series of technical sessions on how innovation is a driving force + High-level segment at FAO Park, Villa Doria Pamphili

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will mark International Day of Forests on March 21 at its headquarters in Rome, under the theme this year of “Forests and innovation” and the accompanying slogan “Forest and innovation – new solutions for a better world.”

Healthy forests are essential to the health of the planet. As the world faces unprecedented challenges that threaten human well-being and nature, innovation and technology are dramatically improving the way we protect and use forests.

The events begin with the launch of Ground, a new mobile app for remote communities to track their trees, the latest fruit of the successful partnership between Google and FAO.

This year’s International Day of Forests theme highlights how the use of innovative solutions is enabling us to sustainably protect, manage and use our forests. Sustainable substitutes for plastics, building materials, textiles, medicines and other everyday items are being developed from materials derived from forests and trees. In addition, drone and satellite technology is evolving rapidly, helping to monitor and manage forests, detect and fight fires, and protect ecosystems.

Join the hybrid event at FAO to find out about some of the outstanding innovations that are helping to protect forests and unlock the many benefits they bring.

Technical sessions showcasing new approaches in forestry will take place on Thursday 21 March 2024 from 13:00 to 18:00 CET in the Sheikh Zayed Centre at FAO headquarters.

For more details of keynote speakers and panelists, please see the programme.

Watch the Webcast with interpretation provided in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Spanish and Russian or join the Zoom webinar here.

Journalists wishing to attend the event in person should send their accreditation request to [email protected], including a valid press card or letter of assignment on company stationery and a copy of a valid photo ID (passport/identity card).

High-level ceremony at the Global Library of Trees and Flowers – FAO Park, Villa Doria Pamphili, Rome, 26 March 2024, 11:00 – 12:30 CET

To build on the momentum of the International Day of Forests, on March 26 at 11:00 CET there will be a new tree planting activity and the inauguration of the educational itinerary at the Global Library of Trees and Flowers – FAO Park at Villa Pamphili in Rome.

FAO Director-General QU Dongyu will deliver opening remarks.

The high-level ceremony will also see the participation of Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Ghana, Salio Waipo, Minister for Forests, Papua New Guinea, Edmondo Cirielli, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Italy, Sabrina Alfonsi, Councilor to the Agriculture, Environment and Waste Cycle, Roma Capitale, Günter Walkner, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Austria to FAO.

The event will also be attended by students from schools based in Rome who will be guided by forestry experts to learn about the seven geographical areas where the newly planted trees originate, with the support of a dedicated WebApp. By learning about the various tree species, visitors will cultivate a greater awareness of our planet’s biodiversity and nurture an appreciation for the crucial role trees and plants play in sustaining life.