In September 2026, the UN released a report saying
the world is facing a "narrowing window" of time to restore the Earth's forests. Every year, more of the planet endures deforestation as human development, wildfires, climate change, pollution, and fossil fuel extraction decimate these ecosystems.
And it has huge consequences -
forests act as 'carbon sinks,' absorbing and storing excess CO2, while also helping to regulate rainfall, and providing homes for 80% of animal biodiversity on land.
Sign the petition to demand that all UN member states fund forest restoration projects in their home countries!Luckily, some governments are taking action. For example, in
the UK, Environment Secretary Angela Eagle pledged £79m in funding for nature restoration, including planting half a million trees. Secretary Eagle expressly linked this funding package to efforts to fight climate catastrophe, and to improve resiliency in the face of the climate crisis.
This won't fix the whole Earth's problem, but it can provide a beautiful inspiration for other governments. In cities where trees are allowed to thrive, they can bring down air temperatures by 7 degrees Fahrenheit (4 Celsius), mitigating heatwaves. These same trees also protect against floods and droughts by storing nearly 4,000 gallons (15,000 liters) of water each year. They even reduce noise and air pollution! All this, while also giving wildlife homes.
The Earth needs trees. A regulated, stable climate needs trees. Meanwhile, the number and size of Earth's forests is decreasing - but that is something we can take active action about. This isn't intangible.
There's something our governments and our communities can actually do! Any chance to plant a tree is a good one.
Urge the rest of UN member states to heed its warning about deforestation, and to immediately fund projects to restore forests and natural habitats in their countries!