International Day of Forests 2016: Forests and Water
This global celebration of forests provides a platform to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and trees. Did you know our SelfEco Pots are Tree-Free?
But, what does that actually mean? Simple. Our pots are made from 100% renewable plants. Plants grow very fast and take little care to maintain. The plants used in our products are renewable annually, whereas trees take lots of care and years to grow. Let's save the trees!
Planting trees in SelfEco Pots
If you are going to be planting trees straight from seeds this Spring, why not try them in a SelfEco Pot? Because SelfEco Pots have plant food built right into the walls, your tree seeds will absorb more nutrients, quicker. You just plant the entire pot (and seed) right into the ground! As the pot breaks down and decomposes in the soil, it provides a constant source of nutrition for your tree and roots. This causes your tree to have bold, sturdy roots and grow faster & fuller :)
Forests cover one third of the Earth's land mass, performing vital functions around the world. Around 1.6 billion people - including more than 2,000 indigenous cultures - depend on forests for their livelihood. Forests are the most biologically-diverse ecosystems on land, home to more than 80% of the terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects. They also provide shelter, jobs and security for forest-dependent communities.
Yet despite all of these priceless ecological, economic, social and health benefits, global deforestation continues at an alarming rate - 13 million hectares of forest are destroyed annually. Deforestation accounts for 12 to 20 percent of the global greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
Celebrating forests and water
Every year on the International Day of Forests we celebrate the ways in which forests and trees sustain and protect us. This year we are raising awareness of how forests are key to the planet’s supply of freshwater, which is essential for life.
Did you know?
- Forested watersheds and wetlands supply 75 percent of the world’s accessible freshwater
- About one-third of the world’s largest cities obtain a significant proportion of their drinking water directly from forested protected areas
- Nearly 80 percent of the world’s population – 8 out of 10 people - are exposed to high levels of threat to water security
- Improved water resource management can show considerable economic gains
- Forests act as natural water filters
- Climate change is altering forests role in water flows and the availability of water resources
- Forests have a crucial role in building and strengthening resilience