Indicators that measure forest health and conservation are an important part of understanding the environmental health of farms.

Today, Tuesday, 21 March, is the FAO’s International Day of Forests, intended to raise awareness of all types of forests.

Indicators that measure forest health and conservation are an important part of understanding the environmental health of farms. COSA’s farm-level survey looks at the number and types of trees planted or removed on a farm, as well as the land area altered by planting or removing trees.

As part of our assessment tailored to understanding producer organizations, we look at how well the co-operative works to raise awareness of conservation practices or invests in conservation efforts at the community level. For example, we ask questions about buffer zones, the maintenance of forests and biosphere reserves, and the planting of trees to inform our Biodiversity Conservation Services indicator. Co-ops can exert a strong influence on farmers’ activities and encourage environmental stewardship among the smallholder farmers they serve. Learn more about our indicators here.

This year’s International Day of Forests theme is: Forests and Energy. Learn more here.