Do you remember the tree planting project in Brazil that is NIKIN special to NIKIN , which even Carla and Nicholas actively helped with on site last December? If not, this blog will refresh your memory—because exactly one year later, we are back in Sete Lagoas, in the heart of the Brazilian Cerrado. The project is entering its next phase – and this time it will be even bigger, more diverse, and more effective.
Why the Cerrado in Brazil is so worthy of protection
When most people think of Brazil, the Amazon comes to mind first – the Cerrado, on the other hand, is less well known but equally worthy of protection. After all, the Serra de Santa Helena region near Sete Lagoas is one of the most species-rich biomes in the world. The Serra is a true natural gem – but unfortunately it is under enormous pressure. Deforestation, urbanization, and intensive agriculture are threatening not only the unique landscape and local biodiversity, but also important water resources and the ability to store carbon.
That is why the Instituto Terrenus is committed to preserving local ecosystems, water reserves, and biodiversity. And we are helping with the reforestation and ecological regeneration of the region.
25,000 trees planted, and that's just the beginning
Since the project began last year, around 25,000 native tree seedlings have already been planted in the region. Most of these were planted during the rainy season between December 2024 and March 2025—the ideal time for trees to grow.
The plantings made so far are helping in this regard:
- stabilize degraded soils
- restore natural habitats
- improve the microclimate
- Protecting water sources
- and restore biodiversity
Since many areas in the Cerrado are difficult to access or steep, our local partners rely not only on traditional seedling planting, but also on a traditional Brazilian method: Muvuca de Sementes. This involves a mixture of seeds from native Tree, shrub, and legume species, which is sown directly into the soil. This method enables natural regeneration even in areas that are difficult to access—a major benefit for the long-term restoration of nature.
Support from across the region
What makes this project special is the strong involvement of the local population: since planting takes place mainly on weekends and public holidays, more than 250 volunteers have already actively participated—including families, children, seniors, local organizations, and schools. Many women are also heavily involved, either by providing land or by participating in the planting activities themselves. In addition, valuable local partnerships are being formed, for example with the Democrata soccer club and the UFSJ university, which is supporting the project with scientific advice, seeds, and research.
The plan is to plant 94,000 more seedlings.
The project is long-term and will continue immediately: From November 2025 to March 2026, a total of 94,000 additional trees are to be planted. The plan is as follows:
- 30,000 seedlings in December
- 30,000 in January
- Another 34,000 in February and March, including replanting
Another special feature of the project is that Instituto Terrenus is currently developing an interactive platform on which all seedlings and planting areas can be geolocated and documented. This makes it possible to see exactly where the trees are growing, how the project is progressing, and what is currently happening. This makes reforestation visible, measurable, and accessible.
Why this project is particularly close to our hearts
As mentioned in the previous blog, which you can read here, this project is NIKIN to NIKIN . Precisely because our co-founder Carla comes from Sete Lagoas, this project is very close to our hearts. It is a joint project, an educational project, and a nature conservation project that connects people across continents.
And we are certain that this will not be the last project we support with such passion in Brazil. Would you like to get involved too? For every NIKIN you buy, we plant a Tree. Because together we can make the world greener— step by step, tree by tree.
