Costa Rica and Guatemala promote forest sustainability at UN forum

In a vibrant gathering at the United Nations, representatives from various nations convened for the Forum on Forests 2025, a pivotal session aimed at addressing the urgent challenges facing global forests. The atmosphere was charged with a shared commitment to sustainable forest management and the recognition of forests as vital to combating climate change and supporting biodiversity.

Costa Rica took center stage, emphasizing the importance of supporting local communities that depend on forests. A representative highlighted the nation’s ambitious goal of achieving 60% forest coverage, underscoring that sustainable practices in agriculture are essential to prevent deforestation. "We can't even begin to aspire to protect forests if we don't provide the people that work and live in forests with the minimum income they need," they stated, calling for long-term international financing to support these initiatives.

Guatemala echoed similar sentiments, showcasing its rich biodiversity and the challenges it faces, including deforestation and forest fires. The country has committed 1.5% of its national budget to strengthen forest governance and promote sustainable management practices. "Forest sustainability requires strengthening local capacities and collaboration between the public and private sectors," a delegate asserted, appealing for increased technical and financial support from the international community.

Australia expressed optimism about the forum's potential to advance global forest goals, noting its significant forest cover of 134 million hectares. The Australian representative reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve these objectives.

Armenia shared its dedication to forest governance, highlighting recent reforms aimed at enhancing sustainability. The country is implementing new management plans and laws to protect its forests, demonstrating a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. "Forests are closely tied to our culture, our economy, and the well-being of communities," a delegate remarked, reinforcing the intrinsic value of forests beyond their ecological benefits.

Colombia, with its vast forest resources, acknowledged the threats posed by deforestation and degradation. The representative called for mechanisms that not only protect forests but also support the communities that inhabit them. "We must align our actions with our climate policies," they urged, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the climate crisis.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) highlighted its commitment to restoring and preserving forest cover across member states. With a focus on afforestation and combating illegal trafficking of wildlife, ECOWAS is actively engaging in regional initiatives to promote sustainable forest management.

As the session unfolded, the collective voices of these nations painted a picture of hope and determination. Each representative underscored the critical role of forests in achieving sustainable development and climate resilience. The forum served as a platform for collaboration, urging the international community to unite in the fight against deforestation and to support the livelihoods of those who depend on these vital ecosystems. The discussions not only reflected the challenges at hand but also the shared vision for a greener, more sustainable future.