On March 21st of each year, the world celebrates Tree Day, an international occasion to renew commitment to environmental protection, raise awareness about the importance of vegetation cover in achieving climate balance, combat desertification, and preserve natural resources for future generations.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that this day reminds us that a tree is not just a living organism, but a symbol of life, resilience, and perseverance, and an essential partner in building a sustainable future.
The Syrian Future Movement sees reforestation as a national priority, no less critical than rebuilding Syria’s infrastructure, which has lost vast parts of its forests over the past years due to wildfires, deforestation, and the environmental impact of war.
The trees that have adorned our plains and mountains for thousands of years are not just the lungs through which the earth breathes, but also a part of our historical and cultural identity and a natural defense against desertification, which threatens food and water security.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that national reforestation campaigns must be part of a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development, incorporating lessons learned from successful international experiences. Countries like China and Germany have demonstrated that forest restoration is possible through long-term scientific programs based on community participation, strict environmental protection laws, and the use of modern irrigation and forest management technologies.
The Syrian Future Movement stresses the need for cooperation between the government and civil society to plant millions of trees annually, prioritizing the most affected areas, such as the Euphrates Basin and regions surrounding major cities.
The Syrian Future Movement calls for the adoption of incentive policies to support farmers in cultivating drought-resistant fruit and native trees, contributing to food security and creating employment opportunities in rural areas.
The Syrian Future Movement emphasizes the importance of educating future generations about environmental conservation by incorporating sustainability concepts into school curricula and establishing environmental clubs in schools and universities.
The Syrian Future Movement calls for the restoration of natural forests through research projects in partnership with international organizations, inspired by initiatives like Africa’s “Great Green Wall” project, aimed at halting desert expansion.
On this day, the Syrian Future Movement honors the efforts of environmental workers and volunteers who plant hope with every sapling rooted in the homeland’s soil. We affirm that the battle for reforestation is a battle against poverty, ignorance, and marginalization an opportunity to strengthen social cohesion through volunteer campaigns that unite Syrians under the slogan: “One hand restores, one hand plants.”
The Syrian Future Movement urges the government to enact a strict national law for forest protection and establish a national fund to support environmental initiatives.
We also call on the international community to fund environmental rehabilitation projects in Syria, recognizing its moral responsibility in addressing the climate damage caused by recent crises.
In conclusion, we salute every Syrian contributing to the greening of our homeland. May Syria continue to revive its natural heritage and prove that a people who love their land can turn ashes into gardens.
