“Planting with Purpose: How Procter & Gamble and NGOs are Leading Science-Based Tree-Planting Initiatives”
In today’s world, tree-planting initiatives are more important than ever. However, simply planting trees for the sake of it is not enough. A science-based approach is necessary to ensure that trees thrive and have a positive impact on the environment. This is where NGOs and corporations can come together to implement thoughtful restoration projects that benefit not only the environment but also people and biodiversity.
One organization leading the way in this effort is the Arbor Day Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to planting trees. The Foundation has set a goal to plant 500 million trees worldwide in five years, a monumental task that requires a vast network of global tree-planting organizations as well as individual and corporate supporters. To ensure the success of their projects, the Arbor Day Foundation applies intelligent, data-informed strategies to identify forests in the greatest need of restoration.
When building a restoration project with partners, the Arbor Day Foundation takes three key steps. First, they study the data to identify forests where trees can have the most benefit based on factors such as climate change impact, benefits to Indigenous and community lands, and biodiversity improvement potential. Next, they engage with local communities, particularly Indigenous peoples who have been managing forest land for thousands of years. By respecting their rights and listening to their perspectives, the Foundation ensures the success of their projects. Finally, they plant the right trees in the right places, focusing on native species that can thrive in the face of climate change.
One company that has partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation is Procter & Gamble (P&G). P&G understands the importance of protecting and restoring critical ecosystems to sustain its operations and support the well-being of people. Through its Charmin brand, P&G is committed to protecting forests by sourcing from FSC-certified forests and ensuring that two trees are regrown for every one used. Additionally, Charmin is working with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant 1 million trees by 2025 in areas affected by natural disasters.
In conclusion, successful tree-planting projects require trusted partnerships with credible organizations and a scientific, thoughtful approach. By working together, we can create lasting benefits for forests, wildlife, people, and the climate.