National Forestation Day is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of forests and promoting tree-planting initiatives. This day highlights the critical role forests play in sustaining life on Earth, combating climate change, and preserving biodiversity.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: November 11
- Tagged as: Environmental Awareness, Tree Planting, Conservation
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalForestationDay
- When was it founded?: November 6, 2019
- Who founded it?: President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye
History of National Forestation Day
National Forestation Day was officially established in Türkiye on November 6, 2019, by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The day was created to promote widespread tree-planting efforts across the country and to foster environmental consciousness. Since its inception, millions of saplings have been planted annually under themes like “Breath for the Future” and “Breath for Humanity.” The initiative has also gained international attention for its record-breaking events, such as planting over 300,000 saplings in a single hour.
Timeline
- 2019: National Forestation Day is declared in Türkiye.
- 2020: Guinness World Record set for most saplings planted in one hour.
- 2021: Theme “Breath for the World” expands the initiative globally.
- 2023: Over 5 million saplings planted to celebrate Türkiye’s Republic centennial.
- 2024: Goal set to plant 500 million saplings by year-end.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November 11 | Monday |
| 2025 | November 11 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | November 11 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | November 11 | Thursday |
| 2028 | November 11 | Saturday |
Observed
National Forestation Day is primarily observed in Türkiye but has inspired global participation. Activities include mass tree-planting events, educational campaigns, and community-driven conservation projects. People from all walks of life join hands to contribute to a greener planet.
Fun Facts About National Forestation Day
- Türkiye holds multiple Guinness World Records for tree-planting events on this day.
- Since its inception, over 7 billion saplings have been planted in Türkiye alone.
- The event’s slogan often reflects pressing global issues, such as “Breath for Humanity” in solidarity with humanitarian crises.
Quiz
- When was National Forestation Day first observed?
- A) 2015
- B) 2019
- C) 2021
- D) 2023
- Which country pioneered National Forestation Day?
- A) USA
- B) India
- C) Türkiye
- D) Brazil
- What is the primary activity on National Forestation Day?
- A) Beach clean-ups
- B) Tree planting
- C) Wildlife safaris
- D) Recycling drives
(Answers: B, C, B)
FAQs
- Why is National Forestation Day important?
It emphasizes the role of forests in combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring ecological balance. - How can I participate?
Join local tree-planting events or organize your own initiative to plant trees in your community. - Is this day celebrated globally?
While it originated in Türkiye, its message has inspired similar initiatives worldwide.
Related
- International Day of Forests (March 21)
- Earth Day (April 22)
- Arbor Day (varies by country)