PNGFA celebrates 13th International Day of Forests

The PNG Forest Authority [PNGFA] celebrated the 13th International Day of Forests (IDoF), by marking the event with tree planting at the headquarters in Port Moresby.

Similar activities were also held at other forest stations across the country to commemorate this event.

Managing Director of PNGFA John Mosoro said that forests are important not only for people but also for the wildlife that live there.

Mosoro said forests help fight climate change by storing carbon and provide support for communities that rely on forests for their living.

"This is my 4th year of celebrating one of the greatest resources," Mosoro said.

He said forests are home for many plants and animals, and must be protected, ensuring a balance between using forests and conserving them.

He said that logging should be controlled, not banned, to help the economy and the environment.

"We must cut trees, plant trees, and protect our forests. The forest we see today is not the same as it was 100, 200, or 300 years ago," Mosoro said.

He also mentioned that the government and international organizations have changed their policies on forest management.

The IDoF, declared by the United Nations General Assembly on March 21, 2012, helps people understand the importance of forests. Forests provide food, fuel, income, and jobs for many people around the world.

The IDoF celebration today aims to acknowledge this and ensure over 2,000 types of forests are well-managed.