The ASEAN-ROK Forest Cooperation will launch the AFoCo Forest Week 2015 on Monday to celebrate its third anniversary, officials said Sunday.

The event, whose theme is “mobilizing forest and people together for greener Asia,” is to be held at the MVL Hotel in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, from Oct. 12-16.

Participants will discuss issues on reforestation, rehabilitation through landscape restoration and enhancing local livelihood through an eco-friendly, participatory means.

Nearly 200 participants representing 15 countries and various international organizations are expected to attend, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization, the International Tropical Timber Organization, and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council among others.

Also participating are the Korea Forest Service, Green Asia Network and various universities.

The AFoCo Forest Week 2015 will see a shared discussion on climate change, an exhibition showcase of activities from international organizations and further discussion on field-oriented cooperation among participants.

There will also be expert presentations in two technical sessions, as well as an opportunity for participants to network and share information regarding sustainable development.

AFoCo, established in 2012, aims to alleviate the impact of climate change and deforestation in Asia, particularly in Southeast Asia where it is more vulnerable.

The organization addresses the issue of climate change and forest rehabilitation through field activities, and has completed 16 individual projects and two regional projects so far, with four more being implemented. It has also since expanded to include Northeast and Central Asia.

By Sang Youn-joo (sangyj@heraldcorp.com)