Those who think that by planting trees we can save the earth from the climate crisis are wrong. We want to talk about this in this Arbor Day – because while planting trees is an action to be applauded and should continue to be done, it is urgent to focus our efforts on protecting the great trees that still exist in the Amazon and stopping their destruction. It doesn’t matter how many new trees we plant – if we allow those that have grown for centuries to disappear, the little ones will not be able to survive, and the Earth could collapse.
And why is that?
Ancient trees play an exceptional role in their ecosystem. They serve as energy centers for the younger plants around them. Working hand by hand, or rather, root by root, not only with other species of the plant kingdom but also with the fungi kingdom, they provide information, nutrients, and minerals to those who need it most. Whether it is a diseased plant or a newly sprouted sapling in search of light and food – these ancient trees are essential to its survival and growth.
Planting is good, preserving is better
Planting trees is something that is certainly within our reach, as it only requires a little decision and time. But is it also stopping its destruction in our reach? Although not directly, it does depend on us and it is in our hands to protect them to prevent them from continuing to be preyed upon. We can do this by not purchasing wood from ancient trees, supporting nature research, and educating ourselves about the importance of natural ecosystems.
It is not about doing too much with nature, but about stop destroying it. The social and economic spheres are important, but both are under the most crucial aspect: the environment. Without land to live on, without water to drink, or air to breathe, does the economic value of the wood from ancient trees that are cut down today in the name of “progress” really matter? These same trees, for centuries, have given us clean air, fresh water, and a healthy Earth full of life in which to thrive.
Joining efforts to protect the nature that sustains us is important to guarantee a future on our planet. And when we talk about biodiverse ecosystems, the Amazon is a mandatory reference. At ARBIO Peru, we are aware of adding allies to achieve the purpose of protecting the Amazon forest, and we do so with companies that have clear objectives in their environmental sustainability policies to fulfill this task.
Arbor Day
This September 1, Arbor Day, is a date to raise awareness to join forces and begin this task of protection and respect. We can start locally, in our homes or parks. However, at the national level, it is essential to remember that 60% of Peruvian territory is Amazonia. So why not go one step further and partner in the conservation of this green giant? These are the actions that really generate a positive impact on the planet and in caring for the environment, and you can start today by adopting a giant Amazonian tree at www.arbioperu.org.