Monks and kids plant in Cambodia - Clippings

American Forests, Autumn, 2002

As Cambodia rebuilds after decades of devastating warfare, a key task will be environmental restoration. As one part of that effort, AMERICAN FORESTS is helping with a tree-planting project that counts schoolchildren and Buddhist monks among its dedicated volunteers.

Using a Global ReLeaf grant, Mlup Baitong, a local nongovernmental organization, has coordinated the planting of thousands of seedlings over the last two years. Thirteen Buddhist pagodas, 17 schools, and several villages are now planting those trees in an attempt to restore a severely deforested area.

Amanda Bradley of Mlup Baitong says the monks have been very enthusiastic about the project. Trees provide an attractive area for meditation and give the monks practical benefits like fruit and shade. Tree-planting also draws on traditional beliefs.

"Buddhist monks are very interested in this activity because it fits with Buddhist teachings," Bradley says. "The Buddha was born in the forest, found enlightenment in the forest, and died in the forest under a Banyan tree."

Schoolchildren have played a major part in the project, which evolved from Mlup Baitong's environmental education programs. Students plant and care for seedlings while learning the dangers of deforestation, habitat loss, and pesticide use.

Karen Fedor, VP of AMERICAN FORESTS' Global ReLeaf Center, said she was thrilled about the program and impressed with its results.

"AMERICAN FORESTS' Global ReLeaf has always supported environmental restoration, education, and community building," Fedor says. "The Mlup Baitong project is an ambitious endeavor that provides all three."

While Mlup Baitong has experienced a few difficulties ensuring adequate water supplies and long-term care for the seedlings, the project is successfully continuing. This year monks are giving more seedlings directly to villagers, who then plant and care for the trees.

"It is hoped that the villagers will take good care of the seedling since they are received from the monks," Bradley says. "Villagers are very appreciative of the seedlings, particularly fruit tree seedlings, which contribute to nutrition and food security."