Forests

Forests, representing an integral part of the planet's biosphere, play a significant role in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They function as extensive carbon sinks, absorbing greenhouse gases and contributing to SDG 13 (Climate Action), and they provide a wealth of biodiversity, aligning with SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Forests are indispensable in fostering clean air and water, acting as natural filters, thus contributing to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). They are also a vital source of food, medicine, and raw materials for billions of people, directly supporting SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Indigenous and local communities are often dependent on forests, tying in with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The responsible management of forests promotes SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and also creates opportunities for SDG 4 (Quality Education), with forest-based learning enhancing environmental literacy. Lastly, forests serve as potent buffers against natural disasters, fostering resilience and adaptation in the face of changing climate conditions, thereby contributing to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). As custodians of biodiversity and vital ecosystems, forests are fundamental to the holistic accomplishment of the SDGs. They embody the interconnectedness of these goals, demonstrating how progress in one area can stimulate advancements in another.

Understanding this interrelation and harnessing it for sustainable development policies is a cornerstone of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By maintaining and restoring forest ecosystems, we are not just preserving landscapes; we are making a commitment to the sustainability of our planet and future generations.

World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day 2024

World Tourism Day 2024 beckons! As we stand on the brink of another celebration of the myriad wonders of global travel, it's crucial to recognise the significant role of SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Since its inception, World Tourism Day has been an emblematic moment for travel enthusiasts. But this World Tourism Day 2023 isn't just another tick on the calendar. It represents an alignment of the global journey with SDGs.

The Importance of SDGS

Elsevier,

Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, Volume 119, June 2023

This study evaluates the relationship between the road network and deforestation and other negative impacts on indigenous people in Brazil.
This freely accessible Special collection highlights journal articles and book chapters focussing on nature and biodiversity in celebration of the 2023 RELX SDG Inspiration Day on June 13th where thought leaders, corporate representatives, investors, government and NGOs explore issues, practical engagement and ideas in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Earth Day 2024 Banner

As we traverse the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century, our planet's health has become an increasingly critical point of concern. Earth Day, a global observance marked every year on April 22, provides a vital platform to raise awareness about pressing environmental issues and encourage action towards sustainable solutions. As we gear up for Earth Day 2024, the theme remains unknown, but the commitment to global ecological responsibility remains stronger than ever.

Earth Day: A Brief History

This article supports SDG 13 and 15 by showing that fulfillment of the global climate pledges would result in increased forest land on the Tibetan Plateau
Elsevier,

Chapter 13 - Applications of LiDAR in Biodiversity Conservation, Ecohydrology, and Ecological Process Modeling of Forest Ecosystems, Editor(s): Qinghua Guo, Yanjun Su, Tianyu Hu, LiDAR Principles, Processing and Applications in Forest Ecology, Academic Press, 2023, Pages 407-442, ISBN 9780128238943

This content aligns with Goal 15: Life on Land by exploring the role and advantages of LiDAR in biodiversity monitoring in forest ecosystems.
Earth
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22nd, and it is a global event aimed at raising awareness and promoting action towards environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and since then, it has become one of the largest civic events in the world, with over one billion people participating in activities such as clean-up campaigns, tree-planting initiatives, and educational programs. The theme for 2023 is Invest in Our Planet, a campaign that will focus on engaging governments, institutions, businesses and individuals in the fight against the climate crisis.
The effects of forest harvesting are very evident aboveground, with clear contrasts between areas that are clearcut and those that are managed with some degree of retention of old trees.  The implications for the belowground portions of forest ecosystems are difficult to see, but fundamental to the future development of the recovering forest.
This review article advances goals 3, 5, and 10 by addressing inequity in care among pregnant women with asthma in underserved communities and examining potential interventions that may help improve health outcomes and standard of care.
Elsevier,

Ali Jalali, Phillip B. Roös, Murray Herron, Paras Sidiqui, Emma Duncan, Chapter 24 - Predictive modeling for reforestation of cities to mitigate climate change impacts, Editor(s): Zaheer Allam, Didier Chabaud, Catherine Gall, Florent Pratlong, Carlos Moreno, Resilient and Sustainable Cities, Elsevier, 2023, Pages 441-456, ISBN 9780323917186, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91718-6.00014-1.

This chapter advances UN SDG goals 11, 13, and 3 by discussing how urban reforestation could be among effective options for mitigating urban warming and climate change, further aiding planners and policy makers to create more sustainable and liveable cities.

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