Where Did Team Trees Plant?
In October 2019, a massive fundraising campaign called "Team Trees" was launched to raise money to plant 20 million trees by the end of the year. The campaign was created by YouTubers Jimmy "MrBeast" Donaldson and Mark Rober, who enlisted the help of fellow creators to spread the word and encourage donations. Thanks to the generosity of thousands of people from around the world, the goal was not only met but exceeded, with over 22 million trees planted in total.
North America
The vast majority of the trees planted through Team Trees are located in North America, where many of the participating organizations are based. The Arbor Day Foundation, one of the primary partners of the campaign, focused on reforestation efforts in areas that had been affected by natural disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires. Among the areas that received new trees were California's Santa Ana River Watershed, which had been devastated by the 2018 Holy Fire, and Florida's Apalachicola Wildlife and Environmental Area, which had been hit by Hurricane Michael.
South America
Team Trees also extended its reach to South America, partnering with companies such as One Tree Planted and Trees for the Future to plant trees in countries such as Brazil and Colombia. The campaign aimed to restore rainforests and other ecosystems that had been damaged by deforestation, mining, and other human activities. These efforts not only help to fight climate change but also provide habitats for countless species of plants and animals.
Africa
Team Trees also made an impact in Africa, where it partnered with organizations such as the Jane Goodall Institute to plant trees in countries such as Uganda and Tanzania. These efforts focused on restoring critical wildlife habitats, such as chimpanzee and elephant corridors, that had been destroyed by human encroachment. In addition to helping vulnerable species, the trees also provide food, fuel, and other resources for local communities.
Asia and Europe
While most of the trees planted through Team Trees were located in the Americas and Africa, the campaign also made strides in Asia and Europe. For example, the Eden Reforestation Projects, which has planted over 300 million trees since its founding in 2004, planted over 10,000 trees in Nepal as part of the campaign. Other organizations such as the WeForest Foundation and Trees for Life also contributed to reforestation efforts in India and Scotland, respectively.
Conclusion
Team Trees was an inspiring example of what can be accomplished when people come together to work towards a common goal. The trees planted through the campaign will have a positive impact for decades to come, providing benefits such as cleaner air and water, improved soil health, and ecosystem services. While there is still much to be done to combat climate change and habitat loss, Team Trees serves as a reminder that even small contributions can make a big difference.