Support Global Reforestation Efforts with Just a Few Cents Per Tree

In today's world, environmental concerns are more pressing than ever. Among the most effective solutions to combat climate change and environmental degradation is reforestation. Trees play a critical role in absorbing carbon dioxide, restoring ecosystems, and improving soil health. But what if I told you that you could help restore forests globally for as little as $0.15 per tree? That's where Hank Dearden and his organization, ForestPlanet, come into the picture.

Meet Hank Dearden and ForestPlanet.org

Hank Dearden is the Founder and Executive Director of ForestPlanet.org, a non-profit organization focused on large-scale, low-cost reforestation projects around the world. Since its inception in 2018, ForestPlanet has planted nearly one million trees, and the organization’s efforts are accelerating rapidly.

Hank Dearden at a sapling nursery, photo courtesy of ForestPlanet.

ForestPlanet’s goal is to plant trees where they will have the greatest positive impact on the soil, the local habitat, the environment, and communities in peril. What’s remarkable is that they can plant a tree for just $0.15, thanks to their business model, which leverages local economies in developing nations where the cost of living and labor are lower.

When Hank founded ForestPlanet, it was the culmination of decades of experience in sales, business development, and environmental work. His journey began with a passion for both the business world and environmental stewardship. "I love the planet. I love trees," Hank says. His practical connection to nature led him to create a system that could scale reforestation efforts to meet global needs.

Scaling Reforestation

ForestPlanet's approach to scaling tree planting is based on leveraging inefficiencies in the global economy. By focusing their efforts in developing nations like Tanzania, where the cost of labor is lower, they can plant trees at a fraction of the cost it would take in developed countries. Hank explains that in Tanzania, for example, workers can plant hundreds of seedlings in a day for just $4.20.

However, Hank’s vision extends beyond just planting trees. ForestPlanet works with vetted tree-planting partners around the globe to ensure that trees are planted strategically in areas where they can provide the most benefit. These partners understand the local ecology, including which tree species are best suited for specific environments and how to ensure high survival rates.

The organization also employs satellite monitoring technology to track the growth and health of the trees. This ensures that donor dollars are used effectively, and trees are planted and maintained in areas that will deliver the greatest environmental and community benefits.

The Power of a Few Cents

Hank’s model allows individuals and organizations to make a meaningful impact on the environment with very little investment. For just $0.15 per tree, supporters can fund reforestation efforts across the globe. This low-cost model is possible because of ForestPlanet’s commitment to keeping overhead costs low. The organization operates virtually, with no office space, and all funds are directed towards reforestation efforts.

Hank Dearden planting fig trees in Morocco, photo courtesy of ForestPlanet.

One of the most exciting aspects of ForestPlanet’s work is how quickly they are able to scale up. “We’re sneaking up on our first million trees,” Hank says. "The next million will take months, not years." By working with multiple tree-planting partners around the world, ForestPlanet is not only resilient but also able to share stories of success from different regions, allowing supporters to see the direct impact of their contributions.

Reforestation and Soil Restoration

The benefits of reforestation go far beyond just planting trees. One of the most immediate effects of ForestPlanet’s work is soil restoration. In degraded areas, reforestation can help retain water, reduce soil erosion, and create fertile ground for crops. Hank shares the story of a reforestation project in Kwezizi, Tanzania, where 80,000 seedlings were planted across 100 football fields. Just a year later, the roots of those trees had developed enough to hold water and support intercropping, which allowed local farmers to grow corn, maize, potatoes, and other crops.

This is not just a story of environmental success, but one of community upliftment. By restoring degraded lands, ForestPlanet is helping communities to improve food security and create sustainable livelihoods. This is especially crucial in the developing world, where climate change and environmental degradation have made traditional farming practices increasingly difficult.

From Seed to Seed: A Film About Sustainable Agriculture

In addition to supporting reforestation efforts, ForestPlanet is also engaged in raising awareness about sustainable farming practices. As part of their mission, they are hosting an on-demand screening of the documentary From Seed to Seed by Katharina Stieffenhofer. This film follows multiple farming groups as they transition to more sustainable and organic farming methods.

The documentary provides a humanizing look at the challenges and rewards of small-scale farming, focusing on the importance of preserving seed diversity, soil health, and sustainable practices. It’s a hopeful film that showcases the resilience of farmers and the potential for regenerative agriculture to create positive change.

Hank chose to partner with From Seed to Seed because of its alignment with ForestPlanet’s mission. “It has a positive tone,” Hank says. “It’s about people doing the right thing and making progress.” For each $10 on-demand screening of the film, ForestPlanet will plant 50 trees, allowing viewers to enjoy an inspiring documentary while making a tangible difference in the world.

Why Reforestation Matters

Reforestation is one of the most effective tools we have in the fight against climate change. Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere and reducing the amount of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. They also play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, and supporting ecosystems that are vital to both human and animal life.

Moreover, reforestation projects like those supported by ForestPlanet have a direct impact on communities. By restoring degraded land and improving food security, these projects help lift people out of poverty and create sustainable livelihoods. This is particularly important in regions that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

The Connection Between Reforestation and Sustainable Agriculture

One of the most exciting aspects of ForestPlanet’s work is how it intersects with other movements for environmental sustainability. Hank draws parallels between reforestation and regenerative agriculture, pointing out that both approaches focus on restoring the health of the soil and ecosystems.

In the documentary From Seed to Seed, we see the importance of preserving seed diversity and promoting organic farming practices. These practices not only help farmers grow healthier crops but also contribute to the long-term health of the environment. Similarly, ForestPlanet’s reforestation efforts are about more than just planting trees. It’s about creating ecosystems that can support human and animal life for generations to come.

Hank also emphasizes the importance of working with local communities to ensure the long-term success of reforestation projects. “The biggest stress on the land is the stress of human desperation,” Hank says, quoting Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning environmentalist from Kenya. ForestPlanet’s work is not just about planting trees but also about alleviating economic pressures that lead to deforestation and environmental degradation.

Join the Reforestation Movement

The good news is that you can be part of this global reforestation movement with just a small contribution. By supporting ForestPlanet, you’re not only helping to plant trees but also contributing to soil restoration, biodiversity conservation, and community upliftment. For just $0.15 per tree, you can make a lasting impact on the planet.

To get involved, you can participate in the on-demand screening of From Seed to Seed from November 4th to November 6th, 2022. For just $10, you’ll not only enjoy an inspiring film but also help plant 50 trees. You can also visit ForestPlanet.org to learn more about their ongoing reforestation projects and find ways to contribute.

Together, we can create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable world for future generations. Whether through reforestation or sustainable agriculture, the power to make a difference is in our hands.