Planting seeds of awareness and respect for the environment

For the third consecutive year the local environmental charity, Arboretum Marbella are organising an event on December 7 encouraging 100 members of the community to help plant 1,000 trees in an attempt to make another important annual contribution to the creation of their ‘People’s Forest’.

Made up of species native to the region of Málaga including over 17,000 trees, shrubs, grasses and vines, this sustainable and organic forest is being planted using a branch of ecological engineering known as permaculture. It plays an important role in protecting some of the native species of the region which are being endangered such as the Andalusian Cork Oak…

The goal for Arboretum is to develop a green space in Marbella created on once deserted scrubland at Finca El Trapiche which will benefit the environment, promote citizenship and boost tourism whilst educating the community about the importance of sustainable land management and self-maintained agricultural systems.

The organisers are using social networks: Facebook Arboretum Marbella and Twitter @ArboretumMrblla #100personas1000arboles to raise awareness of the project as well as achieve their objective of bringing together 100 people to dig 1,000 holes to plant 1,000 trees, plants and shrubs.

Last year more than 370 participants attended the event, planting more than 3,000 trees, shrubs and grasses and sharing an unforgettable day.

This is a fantastic chance for everyone and anyone to get involved with a wonderful community project where you are guaranteed an enjoyable day at an event that has been organised with the whole family in mind – so there is plenty for the kids (and the big kids) to do.

In addition to the tree planting, there will be workshops in the sustainable Japanese reforestation technique Nendo Dango (Earth balls).

This ancient technique is highly effective and involves making balls out of a mix of clay and organic matter to encase the seeds providing them with protection and nourishment. This ‘clay cocoon’ shelters the seeds from predatory insects and animals until rains fall to soak the ball and stimulate growth. Due to the effective nature of the technique, they do not even need to be planted, simply thrown onto the ground and left to germinate.

Not only do you get to contribute to the development of a beautiful public park whilst gaining environmental education but it’s a great chance to get involved in the local community and meet new people. The project is completely free and the programme encourages you to bring any seeds you may have at home, including pine cones, lentils, chickpeas and especially acorns!

The plan for the day is as follows:

11.00 – Registration and introduction to the project

12.00 – Digging and planting

14.00 – ‘Nendo Dango’ Workshop and kids’ educational puppet show about the importance of trees

15.00 – Time for a family photo – Mission accomplished!

Wouldn’t you love to contribute to such an excellent cause whilst creating a beautiful public park and learning about environmental preservation?

When was the last time you did something good for Mother Nature? And what better excuse do you need to get your hands dirty!

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For more information and to register visit their Facebook page here or visit their website.

And don’t forget to spread the word on Twitter and Facebook: #100personas1000arboles

Watch last year’s event here: Arboretum Marbella 2012