 I am forest. Why forest matter most to you? Do you ever think about that? Do you think forest? 8% of the world forests are protected for the ecological function, including desertification control, conservation of soil and water and biodiversity. Forests contain an estimated 75% of all the terrestrial plant and animal species, most of which are found in the tropical forest. During the wet season, forests act as giant sponges, soaking up rainfall and storing water. In the dry season, this water is slowly released into the river and stream and into underground aquifers. This supports vital water resources for drinking water, agriculture and other uses. Around one third of the world's largest cities obtain a significant proportion of drinking water directly from the forest in the protected areas. Forests provide water storage system that supply an estimated 75% of the usable water globally. Forests act as a safety net for the farmer during the seasonal food gaps. Forests can provide food security for the household between the harvest or in the times of drought, flooding, crop failure and other types of emergency. Over 90% of the people living in extreme poverty depends on the forest for all or part of their livelihood. Forests are strictly linked to the human well-being. More than 75% of the world accessible fresh water is provided by the forest catchment. People rely on this water for hygiene, cooking, drinking and food production. Forests combat land degradation and desertification by stabilizing soil, maintaining nutrient cycling and reducing wind and water erosion. Do you think forest?