Solution

• The year 2011 was declared as the International Year of Forests by General Assembly of the United Nations. • The purpose of the declaration was to raise awareness on conservation, sustainable management, and sustainable development of forests. • Forests are an integral and essential part of sustainable development across the globe. • According to the World Bank, almost 1.6 billion people count on forests for their livelihoods. • It is pertinent to note here that the forest product industry is a source of employment and economic growth. • The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of United Nations declared 2015 as the International Year of Soils (IYS). • The International Year of Astronomy 2009 was proclaimed by the United Nations 62nd General Assembly. • United Nations declared 2008 as International Year of Potato.