What is Arbor Day?

Arbor Day is an annual celebration observed by many people around the world. On Arbor Day, communities are observed planting trees in their local areas. American journalist J. Sterling Morton said of Arbor Day, “Other holidays repose upon the past; Arbor Day proposes for the future.”

The History of Arbor Day

The first recorded Arbor Day took place in 1594 in Mondoñedo, Spain. Later, the Spanish village of Villanueva de la Sierra hosted the first modern Arbor Day in 1805, an initiative of the local priest with enthusiastic support from the entire population. The concept of Arbor Day as we know it today began in Nebraska, USA, in 1872, thanks to J. Sterling Morton, who was then the secretary of agriculture. Now, Arbor Day is celebrated in various countries, generally in April, although the exact dates vary. In the United States, the celebration usually takes place on the last Friday of April, which this year fell on April 26th. Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines, Cambodia, and Singapore also celebrate Arbor Day. Around the world, people celebrate Arbor Day by gathering to plant trees in their communities and educating others on how to care not only for the trees they plant but also for all the plants in their environment.

In Indonesia, Arbor Day is commemorated every November 28th. This was an initiative by the president in 2008. The executive order reads:

Based on Presidential Decree of the Republic of Indonesia Number 24 of 2008, November 28th is designated as Indonesian Tree Planting Day, intended to foster public awareness and concern about the importance of restoring damaged forest and land resources through tree planting.

Arbor Day is widely celebrated and commemorated by many Indonesians, especially by the younger generation in schools. It is not uncommon for schools to encourage their students to collaborate and plant trees on school grounds and in the surrounding areas.

Why is Arbor Day Important?

Every year, many different communities in various countries come together to celebrate Arbor Day with passion and enthusiasm. Arbor Day is a great way not only to celebrate the community but also to promote environmentally friendly practices and encourage people to care for their surroundings.

With the rate of deforestation rapidly increasing worldwide, including in Indonesia, it is important to remember that even the smallest contribution to reforestation and environmental improvement, even on a local level, can make a significant difference. So, what tree will you plant this Arbor Day?