Ending the month of May, Iceland was nominated as the chosen country for our tree donations. With your help, we have raised £85 which will go directly towards One Tree Planted in an effort to help restore the deforestation that has occurred over the years.
Iceland used to have up to 40% forest coverage centuries ago, which has now been reduced to only 0.5%. One Tree Planted aims to plant trees on the lower south-facing slopes of the farm known as ‘Dragons Nest’. The team believes this land has a lot of ecological potential for restoration, leading to their ultimate goals of carbon sequestration and soil conservation.
Planting trees in Iceland, including in the local village of Breiðdalsvík, can bring several benefits to the area. Here are some reasons why it is a good idea:
- Soil stabilization: Iceland’s landscape is characterized by volcanic soils that are susceptible to erosion. Planting trees helps stabilize the soil, preventing erosion caused by wind and water. The roots of trees bind the soil particles together, reducing the risk of soil loss and maintaining the fertility of the land.
- Windbreak and shelter: Iceland experiences strong winds throughout the year. Trees act as windbreaks, providing shelter for the village and protecting the surrounding areas from strong gusts. This can create more favourable conditions for agriculture, outdoor activities, and general comfort for residents.
- Microclimate improvement: Trees contribute to the creation of microclimates by providing shade, reducing wind speed, and regulating temperature and humidity. This can lead to improved growing conditions for plants, increased biodiversity, and a more pleasant local environment for residents.
- Carbon sequestration: Trees are excellent at absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and storing it in their biomass. By planting trees, the village can contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce the village’s carbon footprint.
- Beautification and aesthetics: Trees enhance the visual appeal of the village and surrounding areas, adding greenery, colour, and natural beauty to the landscape. This can create a more pleasant living environment, attract tourists, and potentially boost local businesses that cater to visitors.
- Biodiversity promotion: Planting trees can provide habitats and food sources for various species, contributing to the preservation and promotion of local biodiversity. Trees can attract birds, insects, and other wildlife, creating a more vibrant and ecologically balanced ecosystem.
- Recreational opportunities: Tree planting initiatives can create green spaces and forests that can be used for recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and nature observation. These opportunities can enhance the quality of life for residents and provide economic benefits through nature-based tourism.
- Educational and community engagement: Tree planting projects can involve the local community, raising awareness about environmental conservation and providing opportunities for education and engagement. Such initiatives can strengthen community bonds, instill a sense of pride and ownership, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.
The Ocean Clean-up Project
The Ocean Clean-up project is dedicated to keeping our oceans clean and safe and removing all the toxic waste and pollutants that are dumped there. Throughout May, we have raised £52 which will go towards their continued and valuable efforts. Here are some of the highlights of what they’ve been up to this month:
May 8th – Interceptor 007 collected 70,000kg worth of rubbish on the LA Country coastlines.
May 12th – Interceptor 020 announced being displayed in the Indonesian Cisadane River, tackling an estimated 1,000,000kg of plastic emitted into the Java Sea.
May 16th – Stopped tsunamis carrying thousands of plastics down the Rio Motagua into the Caribbean Sea with the new Interceptor Barricade.
May 22nd – Interceptor 006 has been assembled and being used to remove waste and free up space in Guatemala
