Reforestation and Afforestation Projects

With the forest carbon market faltering, Brazil turns attention toward forest restoration For over a decade, carbon offsetting schemes built on avoided deforestation — commonly known as REDD+ — have promised to curb emissions by keeping trees standing. But revelations of fraud, murky land claims, and partnerships with environmental scofflaws have left the credibility of REDD+ projects smoldering, not least after Brazil’s largest carbon credit producer was raided by federal police in 2024. Yet out of the ashes of disillusionment, a new model is taking root, reports Fernanda Wenzel. Rather than paying to protect forests that already exist, Brazil is now attracting serious investment to reforest degraded land, with the promise of absorbing carbon rather than merely avoiding its release. These so-called ARR projects (afforestation, reforestation, revegetation) may be more expensive and slower to bear fruit—but they are also harder to fake. “You start planting the forest and it’s growing,” said Beto Mesquita of BVRio, a nonprofit focused on environmental markets. “It’s much clearer than REDD+.” Big names are buying in. Restoration firm Mombak has raised over $200 million, even before issuing a single credit. Others, like Biomas—backed by banks and beef barons—are also betting on Brazil’s 109 million hectares of degraded pastureland. The state is getting involved, too. Brazil’s federal government plans to restore 12 million hectares by 2030, granting public lands to restoration firms in exchange for future credits. The state of Pará, host of COP30, is testing the model in its most deforested protected area. Yet planting trees is only the beginning. Restoration is complex, costly, and vulnerable to drought, fire, and land tenure disputes. “You have to be aware of the maintenance costs involved,” warned Alexis Bastos of Rioterra, a nonprofit restoring small plots in Rondônia. Some groups, like Belterra Agroforestry and Rioterra, embed restoration in agroforestry systems that generate food, income, and carbon credits alike. “Carbon doesn’t sustain our model,” said Belterra’s founder Valmir Gabriel Ortega. “It can help unlock it.” In a market still searching for credibility, Brazil’s forest restoration boom may be imperfect and unproven—but it is, at least, rooted in visible progress. Whether it grows into a lasting solution depends not only on carbon markets, but on how deeply the promise of restoration is embedded in local lives and livelihoods. 📰For scandal-ridden carbon credit industry, Amazon restoration offers redemption: https://lnkd.in/gmhFxRK9

Fighting desertification in the Mongolian desert has become a successful venture, mainly due to dedicated reforestation efforts. This transformation is critical as desertification threatens vast areas, impacting livelihoods and ecosystems. The degradation is primarily fueled by overgrazing, deforestation, and climate change, making land less productive and more arid. Reforestation is central in combating these challenges. By planting trees, initiatives help stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and retain moisture, essential for supporting plant and animal life. The "Green Belt" project exemplifies such efforts. Launched by the Mongolian government, it aims to create a forest barrier against the Gobi Desert's expansion, not only to halt desertification but also to enhance local biodiversity. Local communities are pivotal in these efforts. By involving them in reforestation projects, they gain ownership and responsibility for land rehabilitation. Merging traditional knowledge with modern techniques, these communities ensure sustainability. Non-governmental organizations supplement these initiatives, offering resources and expertise, while international cooperation provides essential funding and technical assistance. Success stories are emerging, with previously barren areas now flourishing with vegetation. This greening of the desert illustrates the potential of coordinated action and community involvement in reversing ecological damage. Beyond improving local conditions, these efforts contribute to global environmental health by enhancing biodiversity and aiding in carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change. —- References —- 1. Green Belt Project - Symbol of Friendship between Mongolia and the Republic of Korea :- https://lnkd.in/e8bw_nKK 2. China's 'Great Green Wall' Fights Expanding Desert :- https://lnkd.in/efUTjCMS 3. Trees: Why nature’s tech is vital to combatting desertification :- https://lnkd.in/eWAU7iKc

15% of Denmark's Farmland Returns to Nature! Denmark has launched a $6.1 billion initiative to convert 15% of its farmland into forests, wetlands, and restored ecosystems—one of the most ambitious land regeneration efforts in Europe. Over the next 20 years, the government will voluntarily purchase farmland from owners willing to sell—ensuring a just, consensual, and non-extractive transition. The plan includes planting 1 billion trees, restoring low-lying agricultural areas to nature, and introducing the world’s first-ever carbon tax on agriculture, targeting the country's largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. But this isn’t just about carbon. It’s about reimagining land as a commons—a living foundation for ecological integrity, public good, and future generations. The restored forests will serve multiple purposes: Biodiversity zones will protect native species and ecosystems. Other areas will be designed for sustainable, low-impact commercial forestry, helping to produce renewable materials, support rural livelihoods, and reduce reliance on high-emission construction inputs like steel and concrete. This model reflects a vision of multi-functional landscapes—where nature regeneration, community benefit, and climate mitigation co-exist. Altogether, Denmark aims to rewild 250,000 hectares into forest and convert an additional 140,000 hectares of low-lying farmland into meadows, wetlands, and other restored ecosystems. Denmark is setting a precedent: restoring land as a shared responsibility—and an opportunity to reconnect economy and ecology. Follow for more news on Nature Restoration. #Commons #NatureRestoration #Rewilding #LandJustice #CarbonTax #Denmark #RegenerativeFarming #Afforestation #SustainableForestry #ClimateAction #Biodiversity #FoodSystems #PublicGood #ForestRestoration #EcologicalTransition Photo: Forests of the World https://lnkd.in/dnnrFusZ

AMAZING IDEA OF SPREADING COATED TREE SEEDS EVERYWHERE FOR GLOBAL REFORESTATION. One of the most powerful and scalable ideas for reversing deforestation and fighting climate change is the widespread distribution of coated tree seeds—a method that enables anyone, anywhere, to become a planter. This revolutionary approach turns seed planting into a mass movement by making it simple, efficient, and eco-friendly. --- How It Works Coated seeds are tree seeds encased in a protective layer made from natural materials like clay, compost, and beneficial microbes. These coatings protect the seeds from pests, drought, and harsh environments while also providing the nutrients required for germination. The concept is simple: carry a handful of coated seeds in your pocket, toss them in barren or degraded areas—roadsides, empty lots, mountainsides, or farmlands—and let nature take over. --- Benefits and Applications Low-Cost Reforestation: No tools, no manpower, just throw and grow. Climate Mitigation: Trees capture carbon dioxide, cool down cities, and restore ecosystems. Soil Restoration: Roots improve soil structure and fertility. Wildlife Habitat: Restores biodiversity by providing homes and food for animals. Community Engagement: Schools, hikers, bikers, and travelers can all participate. --- Top 12 Seed Ball/Coated Tree Seed Dispersal Initiatives and Providers Initiative/System Manufacturer/Organization Country Core Feature Approx. Price (USD) Seedballs Kenya Seedballs Kenya Kenya Indigenous seed coating $10 per 500 balls Ecosia Seed Ball Campaign Ecosia Germany Web-based reforestation funding Donation-based Greening Deserts Project Greening Deserts Germany Desert planting tech Variable Nashi Argan Reforestation Morocco Green Plan Morocco Argan tree coated seeds Project-based The Forest Maker (Tony Rinaudo) World Vision Global Natural regrowth from coated roots Grant-funded BioCarbon Engineering Dendra Systems (UK) UK Drone-based seed dispersal $200K–500K per project Afforestt Afforestt India Dense urban forest using seeds $1,000+ per site Land Life Company Land Life Co. Netherlands Smart capsules for dry zones Contract based Seed Bombs USA Seed Bombs USA USA Wildflower & tree seed mixes $15–25 per pack Tree-Nation Tree-Nation Spain Crowdsourced seed spreading Based on plan Grow-Trees.com Grow Trees India Public gifting for reforestation $1–3 per tree Fukuoka Seed Ball Method Natural Farming Movement Japan Clay seed ball philosophy Open-source --- A worldwide adoption of this simple yet profound method can transform barren lands into forests, deserts into green belts, and people into stewards of the Earth—one seed at a time.

Australia Deploys Drones to Plant Billions of Trees Australia has launched a massive reforestation program using AI-guided drones capable of planting 40,000 seeds per day. This system aims to combat deforestation, wildfires, and desertification. The drones carry biodegradable seed pods packed with nutrients and water gel, allowing trees to sprout even in harsh soil. Unlike traditional planting, this method is ten times faster and cheaper. AI software maps the land, analyzing soil quality, sunlight, and water sources. Based on this data, drones plant seeds in optimized patterns to ensure maximum survival. The technology was first tested in wildfire-devastated areas of New South Wales, where new green shoots began appearing within weeks. The survival rate of drone-planted seeds has already surpassed expectations. If scaled, Australia could reforest millions of hectares, offsetting carbon emissions and restoring ecosystems. Other countries are now in talks to adopt the same approach. By combining ecology with robotics, this project represents one of the most ambitious reforestation efforts in human history.

Reforestation is gaining traction with large-scale projects moving into the implementation phase. In the last year I’ve been deeply involved in the planning, budgeting, implementation, and auditing of five projects ranging from 5,000 – 27,000 hectares in scale. The following are a selection of important learnings that have come from this work. 1.     There is a significant difference between planting a few hundred hectares and planting over 1,000 ha per annum. Larger programs require a change in mindset that not everyone can adjust to. 2.     Failure to realize and adjust to this almost inevitably leads to low survival rates and/or poor growth. 3.     The specific reasons for low survival include poor quality (too small, too large, poor root systems) seedlings, damage during transport from nursery to planting site, poor care of seedlings between arrival onsite and planting, not cultivating a large enough planting hole, planting when soil moisture is too low, not controlling weeds, and insect / animal damage post planting.  4.     Sourcing of sufficient seed can be a significant challenge that must be planned for well in advance of planting. 5.     There must be a strong and experienced planning manager that can sequence the operations as required. This includes eligible land identification, FPIC, sourcing seed, nursery development, planting area delineation, seedling transport, manpower planning, and finance to ensure everything can happen on time. This must be sequenced against seasonal considerations. It is easy to get out of control on large programs.  6.     The boundary between forest and non-forest area eligible for ARR is often blurred and needs careful delineation.  7.     The operations manager must have experience with large scale planting programs. He/she must also be able to gain the trust and respect of the IP’s / local communities. A good senior nursery manager is also critical for success. 8.     Obtaining sufficient labour can be challenging. Planting can clash with crop planting / harvesting for local communities. Plan well in advance for this. 9.     Planting is hard work. The first few weeks is tough for workers not used to the long days required. It requires patience and firm management to work through this without costs blowing out.  10.  There must be a full set of SOPs. Everyone must be fully trained for these and HSE standards.  11.  A culture for quality, not just quality, must be developed throughout the organization. 12.  The project must consider the long-term income of the IP’s / local communities. The carbon income post planting and maintenance may not be sufficient to motivate the communities for continued support. Agroforestry programs often need to be scaled up. 13.  Fire prevention and control is technically challenging. It requires expert input for planning and training.  14.  Maximize the potential for ANR before deciding to plant. It is much cheaper and is often more effective for obtaining biodiversity. 

7 Years & 62k Trees Later: An almost barren landscape has been transformed into a lush, green haven, thanks to reforestation efforts. In an IG post by Raf Dionisio, a social and environmental entrepreneur and co-founder of MAD Travel, a before-and-after comparison of a Zambales mountain revealed a dramatic seven-year transformation. "Thank you to the Aeta communities of Yangil and Banawen for working with us on restoring their ancestral land, and for helping build a green economy based on agroforestry where taking care of nature builds wealth. Cashew, tea, honey and calamansi are some of the exciting agro forestry products that will provide income for all. Extra info for those asking: Forest trees used: Kupang Narra Yakal Tibig Palosapis Lauan Agro forestry: Calamansi Cashew Bamboo Jackfruit Sampaloc (for Sinigang) Fuelwood: Madre de cacao planted close to the village - the tree regenerates so it's easy to use this for cooking instead of cutting above native trees. Flowers also used for food. This project is part of a bigger plan to reforest 4,000 hectares of ancestral domain and to create wealth for farmers and indigenous people while healing the environment."

This cardboard donut is helping to grow trees in dry areas! It's called the Cocoon, and it's developed by Dutch company Land Life. So far, they've planted more than 10 million trees with the Cocoon and other innovative planting methods in severely degraded land all over the world. So how does it work? First, you dig a shallow pit and place a seedling inside it and pack it with soil to secure it in place. The Cocoon is then placed around the seedling, and it's filled to the trim with water. A lid is then added to prevent the water inside from evaporating. Soil is then packed around the cocoon, and over time, the water seeps into the soil, helping the seedling's roots grow healthy. A shelter is then added to protect the growing seedling from too much sun exposure, the wind and small animals. The cocoon is made from recycled cardboard, and is 100% biodegradable. Land Life says The Cocoon helps trees establish in arid and degraded environments with only 25 liters of water. Using x1000 less water than traditional methods. It provides survival rates up to 95% in hot and dry areas. There are 2 billion hectares of degraded land worldwide, that's a bigger area than South America. So reforestation projects like this are vital to reverse this critical situation!

Foxholes: The Simple, Brilliant Reforestation Method You’ve Probably Never Heard Of 🌳 In Madagascar, Ecosia and The Phoenix Conservancy are restoring forests using a method called 'foxholes' and it doesn’t involve planting saplings. It immediately reminded me of half-moon Earth bunds. Simple, effective and surprisingly powerful. Instead of raising delicate nursery saplings and hoping they survive in harsh conditions, foxholes mimic how forests regenerate naturally. Seeds are scattered into shallow basins, where they compete naturally for light, water and nutrients, just as they would in the wild. The results? ⤷ 30x more trees ⤷ 2x the plant diversity ⤷ 30% lower cost than traditional tree planting This technique rebuilds ecosystems, supports local livelihoods and creates space for endangered species like the ring-tailed lemur to return. Foxholes build on restoration techniques developed in Central and South America, especially ‘applied nucleation’, which is the practice of planting small patches of forest to kickstart natural regeneration. And while the method isn’t new, Ecosia is helping it scale, connecting partners across continents, from Madagascar to Brazil. Effective restoration doesn’t need to be high-tech or high-cost. Sometimes, all it takes is a shallow hole and a deeper understanding of nature. One rooted in the same wisdom that has guided indigenous land stewards for generations: work with nature, not against it. #NatureRestoration #Rewilding #TreePlanting #Biodiversity #Conservation 🎞️ Ecosia

Underground forests. This is the evocative name given to the potential that often lies dormant underground in the roots of deforested and over grazed lands that are considered degraded and worthless. Deforestation and over grazing of arid lands leads to desertification, but at the same time the tree stumps are mostly left in the ground, being timely and costly to remove. These stumps usually continue to contain life and crucially still have the mature root systems below ground. With the correct pruning and protection from grazing, the stumps can rapidly regrow into native trees with the root systems already there to support growth and lift water. Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration ( or FMNR for short) is the name for this simple highly effective and cheap way to regenerate deforested and degraded landscapes. One to several shoots of new grown are stimulated into life via pruning off of other growth, that can be used as mulch. Protection from grazing is then the only other requirement - the mature root systems taking care of the rapid regrowth. It's now estimated as much as 18.2 million hectares worldwide has been regenerated using FMNR. The restoration of the indigenous trees then allowing for agriculture and natural agroforestry to establish in areas where once there was abundance. FMNR should also ideally be the first step in all reforestation projects, the inexpensive regeneration of any existing native self reliant trees that can offer a pulse of life and then act as a support system for additional planting. 🌳 🌳 Photo shows an FMNR project from Talensi District, Ghana. #biodiversity #miyawakimethod #FMNR #regeneration #reforestation #restoration #afforestation #naturebasedsolutions #nature #ecosystem #ecosystemrestoration #diversity #forests #climate