Six Month Update
August 1, 2021
Zorali x Eden Reforestation Project
Photos courtesy of the Eden Reforestation Project
Words by the Eden Reforestation Project & Zorali
Eden Kenya’s Kanaan nursery, which produces the seedlings for the Kitiligini reforestation site. Eden’s nurseries are primarily used to produce slower-growing native species trees to ensure diversity at our reforestation sites.
Kitiligini Reforestation Site in Kijabe, Kenya.
Here at Zorali, we stand by our mission to give back to nature. One way we do this is by supporting organisations like the Eden Reforestation Project. Our pals at Eden are committed to restoring forests around the world. In turn, providing habitats for wildlife, reliable water supplies, and landslide protection.
Additionally, Eden partners with local communities to provide dignified employment and sustainable economic opportunities. Their approach empowers locals to become agents of restoration in their local community and environment. Not only does this alleviate extreme poverty, but helps establish infrastructure for a more sustainable future.
Eden Reforestation Project
Since Zorali's launch in 2019, we have planted 10 trees for every product we have sold. Over the last two years, this has accumulated to over 200,000 planted trees in the Afromontane forest.
That's all big picture - now here's an update of how Zorali has contributed to efforts in Kitiligini over the last six months.
Transferring germinated seedlings to polypot bags for further growth.
Since February 2021, the Eden Reforestation project has planted 480,757 trees in the Afromontane forest. That translates to an average of 118 working days each month for local employment.
Tree seedlings thriving at the Kanaan nursery. When these seedlings are mature enough, our local planting teams will plant them in the ground.
The primary driver of forest degradation in Kitiligini is the over-harvesting of trees for firewood. To combat the depletion of such resources, Eden works with the Kijabe Forest Trust and Kenya Forest Service to make the most effective and sustainable choices while restoring the Afromontane forest. This includes planting a diverse range of species, including drought and livestock-resistant trees.
As communities rely on their land for their livelihood, it is essential that restorative efforts yield long-term ecological sustainability.
Eden Kenya employees preparing to sow seed balls at the Kitiligini reforestation site. Also known as “seed bombs,” a seed ball is a marble-sized ball made of clay, compost, soil, and seeds. The seed at the center of the ball is a fast-growing pioneer species with a high germination percentage.
Eden Reforestation Project
Alone, Zorali has sponsored the planting of 230,000+ trees. But together with the Eden Reforestation Project, we've seen our efforts multiply into so much more.
Way to go, Zoralians.