On March 21, as the International Day of Forests lights up conversations around the globe, nature shows us it’s not just about breathtaking sceneries—it’s about feeding our future too! 🌳
The Chinese mainland has reached a major milestone in 2024, with forest food production exceeding 200 million tonnes. According to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, this achievement places forest food as the third most important agricultural sector, following grain and vegetables.
Forests deliver more than just clean air. They offer a diverse banquet of offerings—from nutritious nuts, luscious fruits, and healthful oils to mushrooms, herbs, and even support for livestock reared under their canopies. This thriving sector is powered by innovative practices and sustainable farming that blend economic growth with environmental care. 🍃
Over the past decade, forward-thinking policies such as national guidelines for understory farming and strategic plans focusing on crops like oil tea and hazelnuts have reshaped agriculture on the Chinese mainland. The updated 2024 Ecological Product Catalogue further refines resource management, sparking a dynamic boom in forest food production.
This wave of progress has boosted the forestry industry’s total output value to over 10 trillion yuan (around $1.4 trillion) in 2024—a 9.6% increase from 2023. It’s a powerful reminder that sustainable practices today pave the way for a greener, more secure tomorrow.
As we celebrate the blend of nature and innovation on this International Day of Forests, the story of the Chinese mainland’s forest food production inspires a hopeful journey toward ecological progress. Let’s enjoy this epic twist where our forests not only beautify our planet but also serve as a vital resource for food and economic vitality! ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
