The concept dates back to 1971 during an international agricultural conference held in Tenerife Island in Spain. A Spanish delegate proposed dedicating a day specifically for forest awareness—a suggestion warmly welcomed by attendees who recognized its necessity even then.

In November that same year—the United Nations’ Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO)—officially endorsed this idea emphasizing its importance globally.

To further elevate its prominence worldwide—United Nations General Assembly declared March 21st annually henceforth celebrated internationally starting from 2013 onwards—adding substantial weight via UN certification!

Why dedicate such specific observance? According UN resolution primary goal raising awareness across board—not merely experts—but general populace inclusive—all levels regarding sustainable management conservation utilization ensuring accountability current future generations alike!

Forests aren’t merely visible tree clusters—they hold immense value crucial human existence:

• Earth’s Green Lungs: Continuously absorbing CO2 emitting oxygen purifying air regulating climate without which air quality deteriorates significantly!
• Biodiversity Havens: Home myriad wildlife species plants insects fungi—among richest biodiversity repositories globally safeguarding ensures ecological balance preservation!
• Water Soil Guardians: Acting sponges storing water preventing erosion regulating rivers absence healthy ecosystems leads compromised cleanliness increased landslide flood risks!
• Green Lifeline: Source timber wild fruits mushrooms herbs vital livelihoods local communities additionally offering serene natural retreats fostering mental peace tranquility!

Thus International Day Of Forests aims showcase intrinsic worth beyond mere timber sources emphasizing interconnected living ecosystems deserving mindful stewardship advocating wise sustainable usage ensuring perpetual existence invaluable services rendered!

On this day—UN General Assembly encourages member nations tailor activities suited national contexts including tree planting educational excursions lectures exhibitions documentary screenings discussions tackling illegal logging enhancing urban greenery etc.—a collective endeavor engaging governments environmental bodies research institutions concerned citizens alike towards realization—a truly global participatory initiative!

March twenty-first annually serves poignant reminder—forests integral part everyday lives embedded within air water paper furniture urging deeper appreciation thoughtful protection universal duty collectively safeguarding Earth’s ‘green lungs’ residing life forms ensuring shared prosperous future—a celebration nature life responsibility foresight—in essence dedicating focused attention recognizing one planet’s most treasured gifts preserving equates self-preservation!