International Tree Foundation

About Us

We believe in transformational tree planting, because when tree planting is done right it changes landscapes, communities and livelihoods. Our holistic approach is rooted in four key elements: education, environment, livelihoods, and capacity-building.

We run programmes across Africa and the UK, to engage communities on the local and global importance of trees and the role of community-led tree planting in bringing about more inclusive and sustainable development globally.

Our work is about more than each tree planted. We know that the relationship between people and forests determines the success of a planting project. That’s why we are a community-led organisation. This means that, the people whose livelihoods are dependent on local forests are the people who decide which trees to plant, where, and why. As communities restore their own landscapes, they help to mitigate the catastrophic threats of the climate crisis while improving ecosystems and livelihoods. 

Our Vision

A world where trees and forests flourish and their vital role in sustaining ecological and the wellbeing of humans is valued. 

Why do we plant trees? 

Forest Restoration and Conservation: regenerating and protecting existing forests stops degradation, allows biodiversity to flourish and makes the land and the communities who depend on them, more resilient to the effects of climate change.

Forest Services: communities worldwide depend on forests for food, medicine and firewood. Planting trees improves access to these vital resources.

Biodiversity: planting native trees helps restore ecosystems and allows biodiversity, from tiny microbes and fungi to ancient trees and wildlife, to flourish.

Gender Inclusion: ensuring that women have a say in natural resource management plans is vital in advancing gender justice. 

Agroforestry: when trees are planted on farms, they improve soil quality which leads to higher yields. Trees also provide shelter and food for livestock and wildlife. 

Livelihoods: training people how to grow and regenerate trees, establish their own nurseries provides a new source of income.

Testimonials:

With support from International Tree Foundation, people in Kakamega, Western Kenya are being trained on tree planting, tree nursery management and how to make an income from selling seedlings. Our local partner, Rose, founded Women in Water and Natural Resource Conservation (WWANC). The organisation helps communities in Kakamega, particularly women, to restore forests and improve livelihoods.

 “Tree planting is life for me. I sell seedlings to earn a livelihood. I used the money I got from tree seedlings to take my first-born son to college. Tree planting also means working as a team. I keep records of all tree nurseries and trees planted and this has shown me that when women come together, a lot of good things happen. I have learned that we have to take care of our environment.” - Salome, beneficiary of Fruit Trees for Livelihoods project which is being undertaken in partnership with WWANC.