Our current tree planting project is being implemented in the former huge pine forest of Leiria in Portugal. Until five years ago, this was a magnificent forest and a popular recreational area. Unfortunately, practically the entire forest burned down in 2017. The reforestation project aims to restore as much of the landscape as possible.
The pine forest of Leiria was originally planted to stop the progression and decay of the dunes and to protect the town of Leiria from the wind-blown sand from these dunes. Between 1279 and 1325, the forest area was expanded to 11,500 hectares.
Over 700 years of history
This pine forest was particularly important for the Portuguese during the Age of Discovery, as the pine wood was used to build the Portuguese "caravel" (an ocean-going ship). The resin used to protect these wooden ships was also obtained from the pine forest of Leiria.
The whole forest was on fire
Until five years ago, this was a dense forest with old pines and other trees, a place for many nature-related activities such as hiking, cycling and picnicking. There were various viewpoints and natural water sources along the paths. Then disaster struck: A forest fire in 2017 saw virtually the entire forest fall victim to the flames in just 24 hours, leaving just over 1,500 hectares intact today.
Avoid the "tipping point"
With our reforestation project, we want 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" where desertification is very likely to occur in the area. The planned measures include the planting of native tree species such as maritime pines, cork oaks and strawberry trees. As this area borders the Atlantic Ocean, its conservation will also help to mitigate coastal erosion due to 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. As part of the reforestation project, an awareness and education campaign and activities involving the local community will also be developed.
Hand in hand with the locals
Planting activities will be offered to volunteers and local schools during the planting season - not only to emphasize the ecological importance of this area, but also to raise awareness of the severity of the consequences of forest fires and the long-term effects of climate change on this forest ecosystem. In this way, we are also helping to reduce the ecological footprint of the project.
(Pictures: One Tree Planted)
