A new “forestry project” is being launched in Iceland to help rebuild the country with trees.
The One Tree Planted the organization asks for small donations to preserve Icelandic land and wildlife. A $ 1 contribution is equivalent to planting a single tree.
Iceland previously had 40% forest cover. But over the centuries, deforestation has reduced this to just 5%. The project aims to replant an area of 170 hectares, on the southern slopes of the town “Drekahreiðrið”. The main goal is to sequester carbon (remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in vegetation and soil) and soil protection.
An ancient problem
Iceland has long struggled with soil erosion. Deforestation, animal grazing, volcanic activity, high climates and strong winds have exposed the soil and made it incredibly fragile. In an effort to combat this, Alaskan lupins were introduced to the country in the 1940s. Lupine, however, became a problem, preventing other native plants from growing and spreading faster than could be removed.
The forest that will be cultivated will be a mixed species forest of pine, birch, spruce and black cotton wood. This will create a home for fungi, birds, mammals and insects and create better water conditions for the animals that live in nearby hills. It is hoped that it will also provide recreation and walking areas and jobs for locals in Breiðalsvík.
One of the $ 1 donations can be made for planting on one tree, or repeated donations by direct debit.
For more information and to make a donation, visit One Tree Planted Website.