The Leiria Pine Forest was originally planted to halt the progression and deterioration of the dunes and to protect the city of Leiria from windblown sand. Between 1279 and 1325, the forest area was expanded to 11,500 hectares.
Over 700 years of history
This pine forest was particularly important to the Portuguese during the Age of Discovery, as its wood was used to build the Portuguese caravel (a seagoing ship). The resin used to protect these wooden ships was also extracted from the Leiria pine forest.
The whole forest was on fire
Until five years ago, this was a dense forest of ancient pines and other trees, a place for many nature-based activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Various viewpoints and natural water sources could be found along the trails. Then disaster struck: In 2017, a forest fire engulfed virtually the entire forest within just 24 hours, so that today only just over 1,500 hectares remain intact.
Avoid the tipping point
With our reforestation project, we aim to support the restoration of biodiversity, which in turn promotes the local ecosystem and adaptation to climate change. Overall, the project aims to avoid the "tipping point," at which desertification is highly likely in this area. The planned measures include the planting of native tree species such as maritime pines, cork oaks, and strawberry trees. Since this area borders the Atlantic Ocean, its preservation will also help mitigate coastal erosion resulting from sea level rise—a foreseeable problem in the near future.
Tree planting professionals at work
The planting will be carried out by a qualified team from our partner organization , One Tree Planted , with a focus on local employment and training. The reforestation project will also include an awareness-raising and educational campaign, as well as activities that involve the local community.
Hand in hand with the locals
During the planting season, we plan to offer planting activities for volunteers and local schools – not only to highlight the ecological importance of this area, but also to raise awareness of the severity of wildfires and the long-term effects of climate change on this forest ecosystem. In this way, we also contribute to reducing the project's ecological footprint.
(Images: One Tree Planted )
