What makes a good project
Trees need to be the right species, planted in the right place and looked after for years. A one-off planting without follow-up may not survive.
Questions to ask
- Who runs the project? Look for local organisations, universities or recognised NGOs.
- What is planted? Native species are usually better than monoculture plantations.
- How is survival tracked? Good projects monitor and replace failed seedlings.
- How are local communities involved? They should be paid or benefit.
- What does your fee cover? Ask for a breakdown.
Where projects exist
Projects operate in Costa Rica, Madagascar, Nepal, Kenya, Scotland and Brazil, among others. Programmes vary from a day of planting to long-term volunteering.
Be realistic
Planting trees is hard physical work. Wear sturdy clothes, bring water and expect heat or rain.
Offsets
Tree planting is not a reason to fly more. Reduce emissions first.
Programmes and seasons change, so confirm details before booking.
