September 2014: The Youth and United Nations Global Alliance (YUNGA) released a ‘Youth Guide to Forests,’ which presents information on forests around the world and provides a step-by-step action plan for the development of youth-led forest initiatives.The guide, which is intended for use by schools, youth groups and young students, aims to raise awareness and understanding of forests and encourage conservation. Throughout the guide references are made to cultural values and views of forests, while facts and figures are presented.

The guide begins with a definition of forests, and then explains the multiple values of forests before describing the threats forests face. The publication introduces many international initiatives for forests, taking note of international agreements, targets and commitments. It also highlights youth initiatives including the International Forestry Students Association and the Global Youth Biodiversity Network.

The publication is a joint effort by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) and the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It is intended to compliment the Forests Challenge Badge. [Publication: The Youth Guide to Forests] [Publication: Forests Challenge Badge]