In a forest, we can enjoy and learn to understand nature

8 February 2019 Forests in photos

This February, we hear from Kyoko Harada, the winner of our 2018 ‘Experience Forests, Experience PEFC’ photo contest. Kyoko explains how forests help her to escape from her daily routine and why she loves to take her family to the forest.

How do you feel about forests, both professionally and personally?

I think forests are indispensable for human beings and animals. Breathing the clean air of a forest is healthy for us, and products made from wood enrich our lives.

The forest is a wonderful place that gives me things I cannot experience in my usual life. When I feel the seasons in the forest, and see various plants and animals and become acquainted with nature, I can refresh myself and forget the daily urban life. My family also loves the forest. We enjoy digging bamboo shoots in spring and picking chestnuts in autumn, and thus we learn about food while engaging with the natural benefits of forests.

How did the forest inspire you to take your winning photo?

Bamboo forests have been deeply rooted in the Japanese life, industry and art since ancient times. Entering the bamboo grove in spring and digging bamboo shoots is a Japanese tradition. Through a traditional recreational activity called "bamboo shoots digging", we can enjoy nature and deepen our understanding of the relationship between forests and people.

What do you think about the work that an organization such as PEFC does to care for forests?

I think that the work of PEFC is indispensable for the development and sustainment of healthy forests. If nobody protects the forest, it will gradually disappear from the Earth and we will not be able to use timber for construction and producing furniture, paper and other products anymore. Furthermore, the life of humans and animals will be threatened.

We can enjoy the benefits given by the forest without worries because PEFC helps to protect the world's forests.