forest by cheongwah2002
2011 has been named the International Year of Forests by the United Nations. See here.
Our forests are crucial in providing planet Earth with health, wealth, food, fuel and vital ecosystem services. Forests help provide breathable air, drinkable water, fertile soils, a stable climate and adds beauty to the earth.  See here. Various activities are planned around the globe to promote the importance of forests.
The United States Forest Service in partnership with other US agencies is planning special events throughout the year. Mass plantings of trees are planned in countries like Ethiopia, Georgia, Jamaica, Lebanon and Poland. Competitions ranging from photo, art, slogan, and essay writing are also being promoted in countries such as Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Georgia, Jamaica, Lebanon, Poland and the Republic of Korea.