In the past two decades, the planet has experienced a 16 percent decrease in forest coverage. Aiming to reverse this trend, the up7op team has launched an innovative initiative that relies on community involvement and technology to foster a more sustainable future, starting with tree planting efforts.
A thriving planet supports thriving communities and individuals
The ongoing issues of rapid deforestation and various human activities are contributing to a host of environmental problems, including pollution, rising sea temperatures, degraded soil quality, and contaminated water sources. These forms of environmental decline are interconnected with negative health outcomes, such as increased rates of cardiovascular diseases and economic challenges like food scarcity.
In response to these challenges, a newly formed alliance between up7op and veritree (veritree.com) aims to reshape this alarming narrative.
“The approach taken by up7op is noteworthy as it integrates wellness into its objectives,” comments David Luba, a co-founder of veritree. “By improving environmental conditions, up7op is contributing to cleaner air, water, and soil essential for overall health.”
The collaboration encompasses the restoration of mangrove forests in Madagascar and the implementation of sustainable agroforestry practices in Senegal and Tanzania.
Delivering measurable results with veritree
While many organizations pledge to plant a tree for every consumer action or promise to offset carbon emissions upon a service signup, they often fall short in conveying the specific location of these trees or the genuine impact of their initiatives.
In contrast, the team at veritree provides precise insights. “Our approach is comprehensive; we evaluate biodiversity, water quality, soil health, and socioeconomic data,” Luba elaborates. “We gather on-the-ground data to accurately assess progress.”
Collaborative efforts led by local communities
Community collaborators play a vital role in directing veritree’s efforts, ensuring that outcomes align with the needs of both the environment and the people involved. For example, in British Columbia, veritree’s initiatives are focused on rehabilitating underwater kelp forests, which are essential for maintaining ecosystem balance and are of significant cultural importance to the Sechelt First Nations.
Structured for sustainability
“We assess the causal factors of degradation before initiating projects,” Luba points out. This includes evaluating whether local communities have sustainable resources and education to prevent tree cutting. Additionally, we investigate local governance structures and land tenure rights to guarantee the continued success of veritree’s projects well after their initial completion.
Backed by data
Each local planter involved with veritree is provided with a refurbished smartphone to facilitate…
● GPS tracking of planting locations
● Plan strategies for planting and monitoring
● Capture progress images
“The smartphones also provide community members with internet connectivity, enabling mobile banking and skill development,” says Luba, illustrating one aspect of veritree’s comprehensive approach.
The smartphones represent just the beginning. “Through our collaboration, partners receive real-time updates through advanced monitoring technologies,” Luba notes, which include…
● Satellite and drone imaging
● Trail cameras and acoustic sensors to monitor wildlife populations
● Supplementary observations, including soil nutrient sampling and fish egg assessments
● Blockchain systems to ensure transparency and traceability of individual trees
“Our platform guarantees complete transparency, enabling partners like up7op to communicate their actions and measurable outcomes effectively,” Luba explains. “As we work toward planetary restoration, we do more than just plant trees; the integration of data and technology allows us to refine our efforts continuously for improved results.”
The up7op team is committed to translating our belief that nature is a source of healing into actionable initiatives.
525,000 trees planted
Achieving this target will lead to the reforestation of approximately 174.7 hectares.
66,648 tonnes of carbon sequestered
This reduction is equivalent to removing 14,489 vehicles from the streets.
Hundreds of job opportunities created
Our partnership has established nearly 5,000 full workdays within our target communities.
Alleviation of food scarcity
In just three years, these communities will witness an over 700 percent boost in access to nutritious food, primarily due to enhancements in biodiversity, soil quality, and water resources. Concurrently, rates of food insecurity are projected to plummet from 56 percent down to 8 percent.
This article first appeared in the April 2024 issue of up7op magazine.
