A new report has found that half of all utilized forest species are under threat, and it calls for countries to improve efforts in conserving and sustainably managing the world's forest genetic resources.

FAO has released the first-ever edition of The State of the World's Forest Genetic Resources report. It shows how the conversion of forests to pastures and farmland, overexploitation, and the impacts of climate change are all impacting on the food, goods and services that forests provide for the survival and wellbeing of humanity.

“The contribution of forests and trees to boosting food security, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development depends on the availability of a rich diversity of tree species,” says the FAO.

This diversity is what enables breeders to select for desirable traits in domesticating improved tree species. It also ensures forests can adapt to changing environmental conditions or survive pests and diseases.

In agroforestry, a diversity of tree varieties can “reduce farmers' production risks and provide nutrients to consumers all year round,” says the report.

The report calls for urgent action to better manage forests and their genetic resources to ensure rural people who depend on them for their nutrition, livelihoods and resilience will be able to rely on their benefits over the long term.

In compiling data from 86 countries, the report authors found that national policies relating to forest genetic resources are often partial, ineffective, or non-existent. It estimates that less than 1 percent of all existing tree species are being assessed for improved production and adaptability in different planting site conditions or under selection or breeding programs.

Find out more about The State of the World's Forest Genetic Resources report