The Free Tree for Portugal project is a nationwide project with multiple locations. Currently, new trees are being planted at 30 locations, thus reforesting forests. Many regions in Portugal have been hit by recurring forest fires. The reasons include the destruction of the ecosystem and the planting of alien vegetation species that are accustomed to different climatic conditions and therefore respond differently to the local climate.
Help for self-help
By reforesting, establishing and revitalizing native forests, and empowering local communities to initiate and implement these processes independently, we aim to restore balance to Portuguese forests, thereby reducing the frequency and number of fires. In addition to nature, the local population also benefits greatly from reforestation, as their quality of life suffers from fires. We want to demonstrate that reforestation can be implemented as a holistic approach that considers all aspects of society, including environmental, social, financial, and inspirational.
Good things take time
The creation of native forests is a long-term process. During this process, project managers consider many different factors, including soil condition, water body type, biodiversity, landscape characteristics, the needs of local residents and other key stakeholders, and archaeology. This project works with local foresters and ecology experts. These projects are dedicated to researching and improving the affected areas.
The beginning has been made – with NIKIN more trees are to follow
Over the past two years, One Tree Planted has donated 25,725 native trees to various reforestation projects. But that's just a drop in the ocean in a blazing inferno. This shows us one thing: our mission in Portugal is far from over. Several more trees are planned, partly with the help of NIKIN.
Which trees are planted?
Due to the large area covered by this project, a variety of native/endemic species will be planted, appropriate to the biosphere. Some common species include: Arbutus Unedo, Quercus Suber, Quercus Robur, Quercus Faginea, Quercus Ilex/rotundifolia, Castanea sativa, Oliveira-brava, Fraxinus angustifolia, Populus, Pinus pinea, Laurus Nobilis, Prunus Spinosa, Salix, Myrtus (tarentina), Sambucus nigra, and Alfarroba.
What the Free Trees for Portugal project supports
- Planting and care of large
planting projects to restore damaged ecosystems. - Creating job opportunities for growers throughout Portugal.
- Restoration of previously damaged land (by forest fires and desertification).
- Restoring the groundwater level by re-establishing native plants on the damaged land.
- Preventing soil erosion and creating carbon sinks in the soil.
- Supporting the continued growth and strengthening of local communities.
- Improving national awareness of the importance of planting native trees.
You can find information about this and many other tree planting projects in our TreeTracker .
