Adopt a Tree

In 2019, Loja Province recorded 91 forest fires that affected a total of 6,339 hectares. The most severe occurred between September 5 and 20, 2024, spreading across the parishes of Fundochamba and San Antonio de las Aradas in the Quilanga canton and burning approximately 4,411 hectares. This fire directly impacted around 100 community members, as well as the Fundochamba and San Antonio de las Aradas micro-watersheds, pastures, coffee crops, and both domestic and wild fauna. In addition to wildfires, mining represents another major challenge, as it causes serious environmental damage, particularly to water sources that supply local communities and irrigation systems.

In response to this reality, action has been taken to mitigate environmental impact through reforestation with native species, tree planting, afforestation, and reforestation help generate oxygen and reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere. The more trees that are planted, the greater the mitigation of greenhouse gases: for example, one hectare of newly planted forest can sequester close to 4 tons of CO₂ per year, while an established forest can nearly double that amount.

Who else benefits from the “Adopt a Tree” project?

The Adopt a Tree project focuses on the continuous care of native and endemic species that promote soil and forest regeneration, all of this work is carried out in collaboration with communities in the affected areas, creating income-generating opportunities and ensuring that the impact is both environmental and social.

Funds raised through tree adoption are allocated to seed collection, germination, and nursery cultivation, as well as to the transportation, replanting, and ongoing maintenance of each tree. As mentioned, these activities are carried out by residents of nearby communities, with the goal of strengthening the local economy while restoring the natural environment.