Before starting We the Wild, I was lucky enough to travel far and wide; from the beaches of Brazil, to the rainforests of Guatemala, to the coral reefs in our very own backyard. I saw the far reaching impact that deforestation and environmental degradation has on some of the most vulnerable populations. For developing countries like Nepal, where 81% of household income relies on the natural environment, deforestation and poverty go hand in hand. It was important to me that We the Wild helped undo some of the devastation.
Here’s just a few of the far reaching impacts that tree-planting has, that you may not have considered.
ECO-TOURISM:
The tourist dollar is so important for keeping developing countries afloat. And while Europe’s cathedrals and Sydney’s sparkling harbour can draw a crowd, it’s the natural majesty and simple pleasures of nature that draw westerner’s wealth to Nepal. Without that, entire industries vanish. It’s simple. By rewilding ecosystems, we boost local economies.
CULTURAL LOSS:
Much of the identity of Nepalese centres on the natural environment. When it’s destroyed, so is the social, artistic and cultural fabric of the community. Tree planting initiatives not only secure the long term future of Nepalese culture, but the act of planting trees brings families and friends together.
WILDLIFE DANGER:
When a creature's habitat dwindles, they are pushed to survive in urban and suburban areas. Not only can this be deadly for the animals, but it endangers civilians. By rewilding natural habitats, native wildlife can go back to living where they’re happiest, and we can avoid the 26 endangered native species becoming extinct.
Like most of us, there’s still so much for me to learn when it comes to environmentalism. I believe that if all of us take small steps that reach beyond our borders, we can make change. I’d love to hear your ideas, email hello@wethewild.co