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Korea Herald

[Contribution] Forests: The green pillars of climate resilience and global food security

"Climate change is the most serious threat we are facing today -- far more severe than terrorism." These were the words from David King, former UK Special Representative for Climate Change, emphasizing the urgency of the climate crisis. Climate change impacts every aspect of our society, from extreme weather events and natural disasters to declining food production. Forests play a critical role in addressing this crisis as natural carbon sinks, helping reduce carbon dioxide emissions and mitigate climate change. Moreover, healthy forests store water, protect soil and support increased agricultural yields, making them a key solution to the global food security challenge. Every year on March 21, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Nations Forum on Forests jointly observe the International Day of Forests to highlight the crucial role of forest ecosystems in climate stability, security and biodiversity. This year's theme is 'Forests and Food.' According to the FAO, forests serve as an essential safety net in times of food crises caused by crop failures or conflicts. More than five billion people rely on forests and forest products for food and livelihood. However, global food insecurity is worsening. In 2023 alone, conflicts and climate-related disasters left approximately 212 million people across 38 countries struggling with food shortages. Meanwhile, deforestation continues at an alarming rate, with an annual forest loss of 4.7 million hectares since 2010, which is equivalent to 75 percent of South Korea's total forest area. The primary driver of deforestation is population growth and the increasing demand for food. The World Wildlife Fund warned that reckless forest conversion contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity loss and decreased food production. When forests are cleared, the stored carbon is released, accelerating the climate crisis. This, in turn, intensifies droughts, floods and heatwaves, making food production even more challenging. If climate change continues unsolved, crop yields will decline, food prices will soar and global food insecurity will worsen. To tackle these issues, we need policies that promote forest restoration and sustainable conservation, helping mitigate climate change while ensuring food security. The Korea Forest Service is committed to sustainable forest management under its 'Valuable and Healthy Forests for All' initiative. In February, the agency introduced the 'Forest Food' national brand to provide greater access to healthy, forest-grown food products from Korea's pristine forests. These Forest Food products -- such as wild vegetables, deodeok (Codonopsis lanceolata), chestnuts and gomchwi (Ligularia fischeri) -- have been naturally harvested and consumed since ancient times. Since they are grown in remote forest regions, their consumption will also support rural communities at risk of depopulation. Moreover, maintaining forests for their production contributes to climate change mitigation. In addition, Korea is leveraging its successful reforestation experience to assist developing countries in restoring and conserving their forests while improving food security. For example, in Ethiopia and Togo, both facing, KFS is supporting projects to establish nurseries, restore forests and implement agroforestry, a method of integrating crop cultivation within forest areas to boost food production and earnings. Through the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization spearheaded by Korea, we have worked with Southeast Asian countries to protect local forests and strengthen food security there. Additionally, we have invited forestry officials from developing countries to share Korea's expertise in reforestation through specialized training programs. Forests and food are deeply intertwined. Looking ahead, KFS will drive global collaboration to restore forests and promote sustainable food production. By deepening partnerships with international organizations, we aim to make a lasting impact on global forest conservation. On this International Day of Forests, I encourage everyone to reflect on how forests sustain human life and the critical link between forests and food security.