On Tree Day, Campinas’s Santa Genebra Forest announces its ambitious plan to plant 15,700 trees by the end of the year.
This news comes as the city grapples with tree loss, vandalism, and failed reforestation.
Earlier this year, a falling eucalyptus tree killed a young child at Taquaral Lagoon. Since then, 779 trees have been removed from city parks.
Included are 500 eucalyptus and 181 varied species at the lagoon. Also, 98 trees were taken from Jequitibás Grove.
In addition, vandals recently destroyed over 40 young saplings in Taquaral. This marks the fourth such act of destruction in this neighborhood.
To combat this, the forest already planted 4,300 native and fruit trees. Their goal is to add 15,700 more by the close of the year.
Notable among the trees are species like Jatobá, Jaracatiá, and Copaíba. Fruit trees like Guava and Jabuticaba are also part of the mix.
Cidão Santos, who heads the overseeing foundation, shares important views. “When you plant a tree, you’re creating a small world,” he states.
“Trees offer oxygen, water, and fruits. They also cool down the local climate.”
Background
The forest plays a vital role in Campinas. Its health impacts the region’s ecological balance. Thus, the foundation’s actions are essential for protecting biodiversity.
This year’s goals are a big step to fix tree loss and vandalism. The foundation is using a mix of native and fruit trees. This strategy aims to create a balanced ecosystem.
Tragic events, like the child’s death, add urgency to this work. Replacing dangerous trees with new ones makes the city safer.
But, stopping vandalism is also crucial for the project’s success.
The foundation’s actions could serve as a blueprint for other cities. Their projects also educate the community on why trees matter.
Finally, these efforts align with global fights against climate change. Trees act as carbon sinks and clean the air. So, the importance of this project goes beyond Campinas.