Forests are essential to life, providing clean air, food, and a home for countless species. That’s why the world comes together every year on March 21 to celebrate the International Day of Forests. This special day raises awareness about the importance of trees, conservation, and sustainable living.
One of the best ways to honor forests is through food—using natural ingredients that come straight from these ecosystems. In this article, you’ll learn why forests matter, how to protect them, and how to bring their incredible flavors to your table with two delicious, forest-inspired recipes.
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Celebrate the International Day of Forests with Nature-Inspired Food
Forests are magical. They fill the air with fresh oxygen, provide a home for wildlife, and offer us food, medicine, and shelter. That’s why the International Day of Forests is so essential. Every year on March 21, we take a moment to appreciate these beautiful ecosystems and recognize their role in keeping our planet healthy.
Trees do more than stand tall and look pretty. They clean the air, cool the Earth, and even help fight climate change. But perhaps their most significant role is in providing us with food. Many of the foods we eat—like berries, nuts, mushrooms, and herbs—come straight from the forest. Without them, our plates (and our lives) would be much less colorful. Let’s be grateful for this direct connection to nature.
Today, we’re celebrating in the best way possible—through food! In this article, you’ll learn about the importance of forests, why they need our protection, and how you can honor them with two delicious, forest-inspired recipes. Let’s bring the beauty of the wild to our tables!
Why March 21 Matters: The Story Behind the International Day of Forests
Every year on March 21, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Forests. It’s more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a stark reminder that forests need our immediate and unwavering protection. Deforestation continues to destroy millions of trees, threatening wildlife, ecosystems, and even our own future. This global observance is a call to action, urging us to step up our conservation efforts.
The idea started decades ago. In 1971, World Forestry Day was created to raise awareness about the importance of trees. Later, in the early 2000s, scientists and environmentalists introduced Forest Day to highlight forests’ role in fighting climate change. These efforts inspired the United Nations to officially establish the International Day of Forests in 2012. Since then, March 21 has been a day to educate, reflect, and advocate for healthier forests.
Each year, a new theme is chosen to focus on a key issue. In recent years, themes have included “Forests and Biodiversity,” “Forest Restoration,” and “Forests and Sustainable Consumption.” These topics remind us that forests impact everything—from wildlife habitats to the air we breathe. The more we learn, the better we can protect these vital ecosystems for generations to come.
More Than Just Trees: Why Forests Matter Now More Than Ever
Forests are the heartbeat of our planet. They provide fresh air, food, and a peaceful escape from the chaos of daily life. But their role goes far beyond beauty. These rich ecosystems protect wildlife, fight climate change, and improve our health. Without them, life as we know it wouldn’t exist. Here are six powerful reasons forests deserve our love and protection.
- They Boost Health and Happiness – Spending time in forests lowers stress, reduces blood pressure, and improves mental well-being. Breathing in fresh, oxygen-rich air can do wonders for both the body and mind.
- They Put Food on Our Plates – Many of the most nutritious foods—like berries, nuts, mushrooms, and herbs—come straight from the forest. These natural superfoods have been feeding humans and wildlife for thousands of years.
- They Help Fight Climate Change – Trees absorb carbon dioxide, reducing pollution and cooling the planet. Without forests, global temperatures would rise even faster.
- They Protect Wildlife – Around 80% of Earth’s land animals and plants live in forests. From towering trees to tiny fungi, every part of a forest supports life in ways we are still discovering.
- They Keep Our Water Clean – Forests act as natural filters, keeping rivers and streams fresh and free from harmful pollutants. Many major cities rely on forested areas for their drinking water.
- They Provide Medicine and Healing – Many modern medicines come from forest plants. Scientists continue to find new treatments hidden in the leaves, bark, and roots of trees around the world.
Every tree, plant, and patch of forest contributes to maintaining balance in our world. The more we protect them, the better our future will be.
Bringing the Forest to Your Table
One of the best ways to honor forests is through food. So many of the ingredients we love—mushrooms, nuts, berries, and herbs—come straight from these lush ecosystems. By choosing natural, plant-based foods, we celebrate the gifts forests provide while staying connected to nature in a meaningful way.
Cooking with forest-inspired ingredients isn’t just delicious—it’s a way to appreciate the land that nourishes us. Every bite reminds us of the balance between plants, trees, and the world around us. These two recipes bring the flavors of the forest to your table, making your meal both satisfying and symbolic.
Forest Mushroom Risotto
Mushrooms are one of the forest’s most fascinating creations. They thrive in the shade of towering trees, breaking down organic matter and keeping ecosystems healthy. Their deep, earthy flavors bring warmth and richness to any dish. This creamy mushroom risotto is a tribute to the forest floor, packed with bold umami flavors and a comforting texture that feels like a warm hug from nature.
Forest Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients
- 1½ cups Arborio rice
- 1 lb mixed forest mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster or portobello) sliced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth plus more if needed
- 1 cup dry white wine optional, can substitute with more broth
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp vegan butter
- ½ cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the mushrooms until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil and vegan butter. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes. Add white wine and cook until mostly absorbed.
- Begin adding vegetable broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly. Allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
- Continue this process for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked through.
- Stir in the cooked mushrooms, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with more parsley if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Wild Berry and Nut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Berries, nuts, and maple syrup are the essence of wild landscapes. Berries grow freely in forests, feeding birds, bears, and lucky humans who find them along the trails. Nuts fall from trees, providing energy and nutrition for countless creatures. And maple trees offer their sweet, golden syrup, a gift from nature that reminds us how precious these ecosystems are. This vibrant salad brings all these elements together in a fresh, flavorful way.
Wild Berry and Nut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula or a spring mix
- 1 cup fresh berries blueberries, blackberries, raspberries or a mix
- ½ cup walnuts roughly chopped
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- 1 avocado sliced
- ¼ cup vegan feta or soft vegan cheese optional
Maple Vinaigrette:
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, berries, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, red onion, and avocado.
- Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients in a small bowl, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to coat.
- If desired, sprinkle vegan feta on top for extra creaminess.
Notes
Nutrition
Simple Ways to Celebrate the International Day of Forests
Honoring forests doesn’t have to be complicated. Small actions can make a big difference. The International Day of Forests is the perfect time to slow down, appreciate nature, and give back to the trees that give us so much. Here are a few meaningful ways to celebrate.
Visit a Local Forest or Park – Step outside, take a deep breath, and soak in the beauty of nature. A simple walk through the trees can reduce stress, boost creativity, and remind us why forests are worth protecting.
Plant a Tree – Adding a tree to your backyard or supporting a tree-planting project helps rebuild forests for future generations. Every tree planted means more oxygen, cleaner air, and a healthier planet.
Choose Sustainable Products – Look for responsibly sourced wood, paper, and food items. Buying from eco-friendly brands helps reduce deforestation and supports businesses that protect forests.
Spread the Word – Knowledge is power. Share facts about forests with friends and family. Post on social media, attend an environmental event or donate to an organization working to save forests worldwide.
Every action, big or small, adds up. By making conscious choices today, we help forests thrive for years to come.
Honor, Protect, and Celebrate Our Forests
Forests give us so much—clean air, food, shelter, and a sense of peace. They are the lungs of our planet, the foundation of countless ecosystems, and a source of natural beauty that inspires us daily. The International Day of Forests is a chance to reflect on their importance and recognize our role in protecting them.
Every choice matters. Taking a walk in nature, planting a tree, or choosing sustainable products helps keep forests thriving. Even enjoying a mindful, forest-inspired meal connects us to the land in a meaningful way. When we appreciate and care for forests, we ensure their survival for future generations.
So, let’s celebrate! Step outside, savor nature’s gifts and share the message of conservation. A healthier planet starts with simple actions, and it all begins today. Wishing you a joyful, nature-filled International Day of Forests!
Expect Miracles!
Until next time,
Julene
