Reforesting Ireland
Restoring Our Natural Heritage
Why reforest ireland?
Reforesting Ireland is more than just planting trees; it's a rejuvenation of its once-verdant legacy. Decades of deforestation have dimmed Ireland's ecological richness, but through restoration, we can revive its natural tapestry, combat climate change, and rekindle a harmony between the land and its inhabitants. Embracing this green revival is not just an environmental imperative—it's a tribute to Ireland's storied heritage.
Ireland's Lost Ecosystem
Our Native Forests
In ancient times, Ireland's landscape was dominated by vast forests, covering over 90% of the terrain. These magnificent woodlands teemed with diverse wildlife and were interwoven into our country's ecological and cultural fabric. Yet, with the passage of centuries, agriculture, industrialization, and population growth led to their severe depletion. Timber became a sought-after resource for construction, shipbuilding, and fuel, and vast regions were cleared for farming and habitation. A combination of these factors, along with conservation policies that fell short, has brought us to today's stark reality: a mere 2% of Ireland is adorned with native trees. This profound shift not only reshapes our visual landscape but also influences our biodiversity, water resources, and deep-rooted cultural ties to the land.
What are we doing?
Restoring Irelands Biodiversity
In response to the loss of Ireland's native species and habitats, Reforest Nation is at the forefront of biodiversity restoration. We proudly plant the most tree species of any Irish initiative, aiming not just to reforest, but to craft vibrant ecosystems. Our efforts are not only about planting trees; we are reviving the diverse habitats that our landscapes once boasted, returning our land to its natural balance.
Fighthing Climate Change
Reforest Nation is deeply committed to countering climate change. Trees are more than nature's emblem; they're our climate allies. By absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, they address rising greenhouse gas levels. They also help stabilize global temperatures and influence weather patterns. Our mission goes beyond mere tree planting – we're creating extensive carbon sinks and rejuvenating the planet's natural climate defenses. Together, let's combat the pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Fostering Community Involvement
Community is the backbone of Reforest Nation. We organize special planting days, creating opportunities for individuals to come together and contribute to the green movement. Every hand that plants a sapling, every story shared, and every moment spent in nature strengthens our collective mission. Together, we're reimagining and rebuilding a greener Ireland.
Our Progress In numbers
97,500
Total trees planted in Ireland between 2021-2024.
243,750kg
Estimate of co2 absorbed to date
14
Irish counties planted in
Our Unique Method
Creating 100 year old style forest in 10 only years.
Reforest Nation introduces the Miyawaki Method to Ireland, developed by Japanese botanist, Dr. Akira Miyawaki. This method promises faster, denser, and more biodiverse forests.
Why the Miyawaki Method?
Rapid Growth: Forests mature up to 10 times faster, becoming fully-grown in 10-20 years.
Enhanced Biodiversity: Can host up to 30 times more species, fostering a rich ecosystem.
High Density: Allows for 3 times more trees per area, yielding lush forests.
Carbon Sequestration: Absorbs up to 5 times more CO2, aiding climate change mitigation.
Superior Survival Rate: Offers a 93% sapling survival rate, compared to the 60% in standard methods.
The photo above captures a volunteer inspecting one of our Miyawaki forests in Limerick. Remarkably, in just 18 months, the trees have tripled in size, now standing at an unprecedented 12 feet tall.
The Freedom forest
The Largest Miyawaki Inspired Forest in Europe.
Reforest Nation, in collaboration with EcoSikh Ireland, has established what has quickly become Europe's largest Miyawaki-inspired forest in Greystones, County Wicklow. The initial planting kicked off in March 2023 during National Tree Week. Dubbed the Freedom Forest, this future nature haven is populated with 17 species of native trees, each symbolising unity, resilience, and hope. It has been brought to life through the efforts of Ukrainian refugees, members of the global diaspora, volunteers from across Ireland, and the local community, standing as a living tribute to the steadfast spirit of Ukraine's people and refugees around the globe. To date, we've planted 40,000 trees, making significant progress towards our vision of a 50,000-tree canopy.
Our feature on RTE News
In May 2021, wildfires devastated half of Killarney National Park, a sanctuary for some of Ireland's last native Oak woodlands.
In response, we initiated a campaign to plant 10,000 trees to replenish the lost greenery. We experienced a lively and enjoyable day of filming and planting alongside Paschal Sheehy and the RTE News team.
Where Have We Planted?
Reforest Nation is expanding its tree planting projects throughout Ireland, reaching new areas every year. Our ongoing effort is aimed at enhancing the natural beauty of our Emerald Isle.
