by Sheila Westfall

Created on: July 17, 2008

Desertification, or the conversion of once arable land into deserts, is one of the greatest ecological crises of our time. It occurs as a result of over-use of the land, over-use of water, and the collective impacts of global warming. It is especially a threat in Africa, a continent with limited water and the presence of large natural deserts. The Sahara, which spans most of the northern portion of the continent, is nearly as large as the continental United States. Niger, is particularly threatened because it is already 90% desert and receives as little as 8 inches of rain annually in some regions.

Tree-Nation, an online community with its home base in Barcelona, Spain, is attempting to combat this threat by planting trees in Niger. The project is supported by the United Nations Environment Programme for its potential to make real change to the national and global environment. Planting trees will improve the environment in a variety of ways. For example, tree roots hold the soil in place so that it is less susceptible to wind erosion. Also, as roots die and tree litter decomposes they add nutrients to the soil. Although it is true that such decomposition is slower in arid regions it is an improvement none the less. On a more global scale, trees consume carbon dioxide during photosynthesis pulling the greenhouse gas out of the atmosphere and reducing the effects of global warming.

The benefits of planting trees are not solely environmental; there are also economic and humanitarian benefits to the project. Tree-Nation works with local nurseries to cultivate and plant these trees, which brings business to those nurseries. Improvement of the soil and the prevention of further degradation make it more workable for growing regional crops and pasturing animals. As agriculture is the primary occupation of most Nigeriens this permits them to earn a living without relying on foreign aid. Once the trees reach maturity, they will provide fruit, medicine, and fire wood to the local villagers again allowing the nation and its people to be self-sufficient.

Trees are sold on the website each of which adds to the goal of 8 million trees planted in Niger. Currently, four types of trees are for sale - the Acacia Senegal, the Ronier Palm, the Doum Palm, and the Baobab - at prices ranging from 8 - 75 euro (approximately $12.68 - $118.85). These trees are native to the region and thus able to grow in its water scarce climate. This is a crucial part of the project - trees must be sustainable without man-made irrigation and fertilization. To make the purchase of a tree a bit more personal each tree is given a GPS spot by which it can be found via the internet.

Buying trees, although the primary way to participate, is not the only way to contribute to the project. Members can make suggestions that shape the future of Tree-Nation, contribute photos to illustrate its success, and spread the word to help the project grow. To learn more about how to get involved visit http://www.tree-nation.com

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