Forests are far more than a collection of trees — they are living, breathing, vibrant ecosystems that keep our planet alive. From tiny fungi and insects tucked into the soil to towering canopies overhead, forests provide food, shelter, and balance to sustain life on Earth.

Forests act as the planet’s lungs, absorbing about 2.6 billion tons of CO₂ each year — but that capacity is declining because of forest loss and climate stress. They release oxygen, stabilize the climate and provide habitat for countless species from pollinators and birds to large mammals. For generations, people have relied on forests for medicine, clean water, and essential resources. Today, forests continue to protect us by regulating rainfall, cooling the planet, and helping ecosystems recover from disturbance and change. Without thriving forests, Earth’s ability to heal from environmental damage would be gravely impaired.

Tropical rainforests like the Amazon overflow with life, home to millions of species from the forest floor to the treetops. Cloud forests catch water from mist, feeding rivers and communities below. Vast Boreal forests store huge amounts of carbon in their soils and wetlands, while temperate forests of redwoods, oaks, and beeches offer beauty, culture, and shelter for wildlife. Along coastlines, mangroves protect coastlines from storms and erosion while providing homes for marine life. In dry regions, cactus forests sustain life where little else can grow and each forest gives vital gifts that keep our planet in balance. 

For all they provide, forests are under threat. Logging, farming, and more frequent human caused wildfires are destroying them at alarming rates. Every acre lost means fewer species, less climate stability, and the loss of medicines, stories, and ecosystems we may never recover. 

Protecting forests is a big part of the global 30×30 goal — conserving 30 percent of the world’s lands and ocean areas by 2030 to protect nature and fight climate change. As of October 2025, about 17% of land and 10% of ocean areas are protected; progress, but still short of the 2030 goal. But policies alone aren’t enough. Real change takes creativity, teamwork, and action — from governments and businesses to local communities and people like YOU! 

Our partners are leading the way. The Conservation Lands Foundation protects and restores millions of acres of public lands across the American West, working with local groups to care for places rich in life and beauty. Leave No Trace teaches simple ways to enjoy nature responsibly, through science-based practices that help keep wild areas clean and healthy. Citizens’ Climate Lobby empowers people everywhere to push for strong climate policies — building local movements that protect communities and ecosystems.

Forests give us so much: oxygen, medicine, shelter, and inspiration. In return, they need our protection. When we stand up for forests, we stand up for the future — for clean air, a stable climate, and a thriving planet. Together, we can ensure forests and the life they support stay strong for generations to come.

Each Greener Winner will receive:

Each Greenest Winner will receive: