Monthly Highlights of Research Activities: March 21 is the International Day of Forests

March 21 marks the United Nations’ International Day of Forests —a reminder that forests are the lifeline of our planet. They provide food and resources, shelter countless species, and maintain the delicate balance of biodiversity that sustain life on Earth. Protecting forests isn’t just about saving trees—it’s about securing the future of all living beings, including ourselves. Every year on this day, efforts are made all around the world to raise awareness about the critical role forests play in sustaining life.

One example of how forests directly support both nature and people can be found in Ethiopia, where coffee was originally discovered. Have you heard of “Forest Coffee”? This refers to coffee that naturally grows in Ethiopia’s forests. For years, JICA has been working to improve the quality and sales of forest coffee, and helping local communities to sustainably manage their forests at the same time.

Click on the link below for details.

As part of these efforts, JICA carried out the Participatory Forest Management Project in Belete-Gera from 2003 to 2013. Protecting forests requires improving the livelihoods of the people who live there. So, JICA implemented a range of initiatives , including establishing participatory forest management associations, running Farmer Field Schools to enhance agricultural productivity, and increasing income through forest coffee sales. Here are some of the research findings the JICA Ogata Sadako Research Institute for Peace and Development produced based on the project.

Click on the link below for more information on JICA’s project in Ethiopia.

We have published other research findings related to forest conservation.