International seminar on role of forests in natural disasters

Background

Ever since the Great East Japan Earthquake on 11 March, 2011, the role of forests in natural disasters has drawn attention both inside and outside Japan. Japan convened an investigative commission for reconstruction of coastal forests damaged by the Tohoku Earthquake, and with the cooperation of NGOs, proceeded with reconstruction of these forests and the use of local woods for temporary housing.

In the First APEC Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Forestry held in September 2011 in China, the Director-General of Forestry Agency of Japan announced Japan's intention to facilitate information exchange on natural disasters and forests. Furthermore, in the 24th session of FAO Asia Pacific Forestry Commission held November 2011 in China, the commission requested FAO to provide collaborative support for this international seminar. Resource persons are invited to share the most up-to-date information and the experiences of Japan and overseas about natural disasters and the role of forests in recovery. Also, it is expected that participants of this seminar might feel and experience the recover of the earthquake-damaged area.