Tree planting volunteering: how to make a difference
Ready to make a difference through tree planting volunteering? Discover how you can help the environment and local communities.
8min
Some people think tree planting is just a hippie thing. Something people do to pat themselves on the back without actually making a difference. But when you get down and dirty with some saplings, you quickly realize the huge impact it can have on the environment and on local communities.
In urban areas, trees help cool places down, soak up stormwater, and contribute to reduce the effects of climate change in people’s lives. Outside urban centers, reforestation efforts can also make a big difference in protecting ecosystems, impacting many animals’ lives and helping the climate as a whole.
Volunteering with tree planting and other environmental actions can also transform your life. By planting trees, we're not only contributing to a greener future but also forming incredible bonds with others who share the same passion. The greatest thing about it? Anyone can join in and make a positive impact!
You might also like these articles:
- How to help the environment: 10 simple yet effective ways
- Organic gardening: a practical guide to a greener home and lifestyle
- What is agroecology? Main principles and benefits
Benefits of tree planting volunteering
Getting your hands dirty at a community tree planting event or volunteering for an eco-project away from home is not only impactful, but also a lot of fun.
Environmental impact
First and foremost, planting trees has a direct and positive impact on the environment. Trees help improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effects, and provide vital habitats for wildlife.
By volunteering to plant trees, you're actively contributing to a healthier, more sustainable environment for people who live in the area. It's a simple action that can have far-reaching benefits for generations to come.
And it’s not just about the local community. As our planet faces the daunting challenge of climate change, with rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns, trees are extremely important.
Through the process of photosynthesis, they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, converting it into the energy they need to grow. As they do so, they store the carbon within their biomass, removing this greenhouse gas from the air around us.
By participating in tree planting initiatives, you're actively contributing to global efforts to create a more sustainable future.
Community building
There's something special about coming together with strangers to plant trees. As you dig in the dirt and watch saplings take root, you'll form unexpected connections.
If you’re doing it in your own community, it’s likely to make you feel more connected to your neighbors and the place you all home. And if you’re joining conservation efforts while traveling, you’ll get to meet likeminded people from different cultures and make lifelong friends from all over the world.
Personal fulfillment
When you volunteer for a cause that matters to you, it's like putting a little piece of your heart into the world. It gives you a deep sense of purpose and satisfaction that stays with you long after the work is done.
With tree planting specifically, you get to see the tangible results of your work. Years down the line, you can look at a thriving tree and know that you played a part in its growth.
Tree planting volunteering opportunities
Ready to make a difference by helping the environment, but feeling a bit lost on where to begin? There are tons of ways to find tree planting volunteer opportunities, whether you want to make an impact in your local community or travel across the globe. Let's break it down:
Local organizations
One of the ways to find tree planting volunteer opportunities is through local organizations dedicated to environmental causes. Groups like TreePeople in Southern California organize regular tree planting events and are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join their efforts.
Another great example is Friends of the Urban Forest, which connects people with nature and each other by planting and caring for San Francisco’s street trees and sidewalk gardens. You can join them in activities like tree planting, pruning, and sidewalk gardening.
If you live in Minnesota, it’s worth checking out Tree Trust, which offers planting events to the public in the spring and fall, typically May through June and September through October. Their mission is to “transform lives and landscapes by engaging people to build skills for meaningful careers, inspiring people to plant trees, and making our community a greener, healthier place to live”.
You can also find other local organizations through websites like VolunteerMatch. Don't forget to check your local government's website too. They often list upcoming chances to get involved and make a difference right in your own backyard.
Another option is to look for community events such as Earth Day or Arbor Day festivities. Many communities organize tree planting activities during these special occasions, giving residents a chance to roll up their sleeves and make a difference.
These local organizations often have strong ties to the community and work tirelessly to improve urban landscapes through tree planting initiatives. By volunteering with them, you'll be making a direct impact in your own backyard. Plus, you might discover other exciting ways to get involved in your community beyond planting trees, and make new friends along the way.
National and international opportunities
Did you know that you can also join tree planting volunteering initiatives while traveling? Collaborative travel platforms such as Worldpackers allow you to find sustainable projects all around the United States and in more than 140 countries. These hosts are looking for volunteers to exchange a few hours of work for accommodation and other perks, like meals and classes.
Going on volunteer trips like these is a great way to travel cheap, make friends, immerse yourself in local culture and help the environment. You’ll also get to be immersed in nature and learn a lot about ecology. And it’s super easy to sign up: simply create a free profile on the website and use its filters to search for positions that match your interests.
Once you’ve found one or more initiative that you like, read the position’s description, which states the minimum and maximum duration of the volunteer experience, tasks required, benefits offered, among other information. In many cases there are also reviews from previous volunteers.
Then, sign up to an yearly plan and send your application to the host, explaining why you want to volunteer with them and how you can contribute. If you have any questions, ask them through the platform’s messaging system. Once you’re accepted, plan your trip and pack your bags for an amazing experience!
Check out some examples of tree planting volunteering through Worldpackers:
This host needs volunteers to work together and share skills and experience of growing trees from seed and after they grow, to distribute them to destinations like school areas, water sources, hills etc.
“Clemency, his family, and William made our Tanzanian volunteer experience extraordinary. Their warmth turned our uncertainties into a sense of belonging. Wittness's culinary expertise introduced us to delightful Tanzanian flavors. Learning local traditions, making coffee, and crafting banana beer added a unique touch. The guided Arusha town tour provided insights beyond the typical tourist experience. Gratitude feels insufficient; it was a transformative journey. For those seeking a meaningful Tanzanian volunteer opportunity, Clemency's program is a fantastic choice!”, said Ariunmunkh, a former volunteer from Mongolia.
This ecovillage is looking for volunteers that have a strong interest in ecosystem restoration. You will help by planting trees, taking care and managing their current food forest and agroforestry systems, establishing a new agroforestry system and taking care of the land.
This is a farm stay opportunity where the host provides a private, raised, glamping accommodation with a clear roof, 8'x10'x8' canvas wall tent, with hot shower, toilet, and full-size bed. This is in uneven terrain at an altitude of 3,000 feet. The farm is located 6 miles up on a paved road from the highway, and volunteers are taken on a weekly excursion to the beach or volcano.
“I recommend this experience to all travelers! Tracy is super sweet, and her animals are adorable. I was able to have service the whole time I was there but her wi-if is limited. I learned a lot about the native trees. The work isn't too hard, but you do have to be able to walk on rough terrain. She took me around when she could! If you want to be going out all the time I would recommend a rental car. Great experience!”, said the Worldpackers volunteer Chloe from the US.
This farm has room for about 500 trees to be planted. The process of regenerative agriculture includes cleaning invasive straw by hand, making holes, and planting in a good time. The place is accessed by walking or on mule, so bringing those trees to the place is a whole adventure. The hosts try to eat mostly from their land and neighbor’s produce, and the place is surrounded by water springs.
In this opportunity you are invited to plant trees around the island while learning about Sri Lankan culture, tasting traditional dishes and eating tropical fruits. You’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy the location and travel around.
“Udara was a brilliant host and a very relaxed leader ! He made our time in Sri Lanka very enjoyable and showed us a-lot of the local culture as well as helping us with anything we needed. Udara also helped us plan the rest of our trip around Sri Lanka”, said Marcus, from the UK.
Want more options? Click here to see all the eco programs currently available on Worldpackers.
You might also like to read:
- How to be an environmental volunteer: 10 opportunities around the world
- How to support environmental projects through volunteering
Preparing for your tree planting volunteer experience
Alright, eco-warrior - you've signed up to volunteer for tree planting, and now it's time to gear up. Most organizations will provide training and guidance to ensure you're planting trees properly, and they can also assist you on any measures you need to take to prepare for the experience. But here are a few tips:
Clothing, footwear and more
When it comes to clothing, opt for something comfortable that you don't mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes with good traction are a must to protect your feet and keep you stable on uneven terrain.
Depending on the weather, layers are always a good idea. You can easily shed a light jacket if you get too warm while planting trees.
It's always a good idea to touch base with the hosts to see if they suggest bringing anything special. In most cases, the organization will provide all the necessary tools and equipment for the tree planting event. This typically includes shovels, gloves, and watering cans.
Weather considerations
Make sure to check the forecast before your volunteer event or trip. If it's going to be sunny, don't forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreens to protect your skin. On the flip side, if there's a chance of rain, pack a light rain jacket or poncho.
Safety precautions
Safety should always be a top priority when volunteering. Listen carefully to any safety instructions provided by the hosts and don't hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure about anything.
Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards, like uneven ground or low-hanging branches. If you start to feel tired or overheated, take a break and hydrate. Your well-being is important.
As you’ve seen, tree planting volunteering is more than just a feel-good activity. It's a chance to make a real difference in the world, one sapling at a time. By getting your hands dirty to plant trees and other environmental efforts, you're not only helping the environment but also building a stronger sense of community and connecting to nature.
Grab your gloves and search for a local tree planting group or create a free profile on Worldpackers to browse through eco projects in other locations. You'll be surprised at how fulfilling it feels to make a difference. The trees will thank you, and so will the people and animals who enjoy their shade for years to come.
Najib
Jun 27, 2024
Hello
Zouhyer
Jun 28, 2024
Hello, I am from North Africa. I want to join and work with you. Thank you