Trees are a symbol of hope, abundance and life itself, but trees are also a commitment to the environment. It was with this spirit that we planted trees this year.
During Arbor month (September), armed with 10 trees, compost and lots of enthusiasm, we set out to green the community along with our outreach partner, the Mosselbank River Conservation Team (MRCT), a former Miss Earth South Africa ambassador and lots of friendly kids.
MRCT pre-selected the best spots to plant on the slopes on the protected wetland that is in their charge to rehabilitate. The kids were bubbling over with energy and enthusiasm - they carried trees and compost, helped with the planting and watered our newly planted trees, all whilst Danielle (Environmental officer for Garden Cities and the Team Coordinator for the MRCT) educated them on the names, the needs and the importance of these trees.
We were so fortunate to the have Margo Adonis, former Miss Earth ambassador and Founder of Visions of Change, with us who inspired us and the children with her knowledge, enthusiasm and goals for the future.
We know that the trees will have to face the weather, humans that may damage them and the animals that may want to eat them – but it is our hope that the children who planted them may one day enjoy their shade and know that they have planted them and helped the environment in doing so.
We look forward to seeing the children and the trees flourish and we hope to plant many more trees.
Some of the wild fig trees that the Essentially Natural Team donated, ready to be planted.
Arnold Scheepers from Vula, educating the eager kids on why these trees are a crucial and special part of the world.
Danielle, proving that she's not afraid to get her hands dirty!
Left: Lange, the MRCT's beloved mascot, expertly supervising the work.
The elated team!
The abundant beauty of the wetland area around the Mosselbank River. Read more about the MRCT's amazing work to rehabilitate and protect this stunning landscape in this blog post.
