[Global Issue] Urban Forest and Green Carbon

As the global climate crisis worsens, the international community is stepping up efforts to reduce greenhouse gases and achieve carbon neutrality. 

And urban forests are emerging as a major policy in many countries.

An urban forest refers to a forest or park green space growing within regions influenced by human habitation, serving as one of the “green carbon sinks” that absorb carbon within terrestrial ecosystems. Well-known examples include Seoul Forest in Seoul, South Korea and Vienna Woods in Vienna, Austria.

The importance of urban forests is gaining recognition as a vital tool for achieving carbon neutrality within cities. Consequently, efforts to create urban forests are increasing internationally.

In 2018, more than 600 environmental experts from 70 countries around the world gathered in Mantua, Italy, for the 1st World Forum on Urban Forests [WFUF]. They discussed the goals they want to achieve through urban forests, and drew an encouraging result. Built on the success of its first forum, the 2nd WFUF was convened in Washington DC, U.S., in October 2023, marking the largest-ever of its kind.

On the theme, “Greener, Healthier and Happier Cities for All,” it served as a conversational platform for urban forest experts to exchange knowledge on advancing sustainable and resilient urban development, as well as harnessing the potential of urban forests. Additionally, discussions on future WFUFs underscored the commitment to enhancing urban forests worldwide.

At the same time, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe [UNECE] is cooperating with its Informal Expert Network on Urban Nature, and the International Forestry Students’ Association [IFSA] for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals, assessing how they can plan and enhance urban trees and forest cover. The international community is committed to achieving carbon neutrality through urban forests in various ways.