Seeding hope and optimism with the students of Yokohama Science Frontier High School

The session began with a lecture introducing ITTO’s mission and global impact. Students learned about the critical role tropical forests play in supporting livelihoods, providing essential products, preventing natural disasters, and serving as vital habitats for countless species. The presentation highlighted ITTO’s unique position, representing 76 member countries that collectively manage around 80% of the world’s tropical forests and 90% of the global tropical timber trade. To date, ITTO has implemented over 1,200 initiatives, spanning policy development, on-the-ground fieldwork, data gathering, and capacity building—all aimed at promoting Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). Key concepts and practices of SFM were also shared with the students.

Following the lecture, the students took part in an interactive workshop. Divided into small groups of 6 to 8, they were encouraged to imagine and express their vision of the world in 2050, using creative tools such as writing and drawing. Some groups expressed pessimistic scenarios, including environmental collapse caused by ozone depletion and widespread flooding. Others contrasted future outcomes—one where global challenges remain unresolved, and another where they are overcome through collective action. The ITTO team was deeply impressed by the students’ awareness of global issues and their thoughtful, imaginative responses.

In closing, ITTO facilitators encouraged students to hold onto optimism, emphasizing the pace of technological innovation—from the internet to artificial intelligence—as a source of hope. They celebrated the passion and creativity of young people and underscored their essential role in shaping a sustainable, resilient future.