In order to transform degraded land to healthy productive forests and combat climate change, you need tree nurseries to supply seedlings.

There are reforestation methods that don’t require nurseries, like assisted natural regeneration and direct seed sowing, but in Ethiopia the land is so degraded that planting trees is needed to restore the topsoil.

Three community-run nurseries – Embule Tesas Dar Kuskuam, Kidus Yohannes and FTC nursery – have been set up in Amhara, Ethiopia, thanks to Brabantia’s support. With knowledge, patience and care, the nursery workers raise these seedlings until they are strong enough to be transplanted and flourish into a healthy forest. These nurseries are a great source of income. 50 people from the surrounding villages of Amar Webesh, Kidus Yohanes and Gusquam are being trained and now work here and earn a steady income.

Right now it’s nursery period, which means the teams are busy growing the seedlings ready for the upcoming planting season when the rains arrive this summer. 787,302 baby trees from 12 different species are currently growing.

Trees are good for climate, nurseries are good for people.