Earth Day 2025: Creating an Urban Forest with FedEx

Earth Day

Every year on April 22, people around the world come together to celebrate Earth Day, an urgent call to reduce our collective carbon footprint and contribute to positive environmental developments. Answering that call, FedEx Indonesia took part in a tree-planting event at the Greenland International Industrial Center (GIIC) in Cikarang, Bekasi on April 26, 2025. The initiative set out to create an urban forest that can regreen one of Jakarta’s major industrial buffer zones. 

Garrick Thompson, Managing Director of FedEx Indonesia, confirmed the initiative was not just a celebration of Earth Day, but also a reflection of the company’s commitment to nature-positive action. The FedEx Indonesia office is located in the heart of Jakarta, where issues like traffic and air pollution are a daily challenge. In nearby buffer zones like Bekasi, where the GIIC is located, environmentally friendly actions can have a wide-ranging impact for people living and working in the city.  

“You know, this environment that we live and work in is fragile,” said Thompson, who is committed to finding solutions for environmental problems in his local area. “There’s a lot of land we can regenerate, and thereby give back to nature,” he added. 

(Above) Garrick Thompson, Managing Director of FedEx Indonesia, who joined the tree-planting event in Cikarang this April.

Planting Trees, Seeding Progress  

The tree-planting initiative was a collaborative effort between FedEx Indonesia, Trees4Trees, and the GIIC management. A total of 300 trees were planted, which will provide shade and fruit in the new urban forest.  

Trees like cadamba (jabon), gmelina, albizia (sengon) jackfruit, and avocado were chosen for their resilience – they should be able to take root and thrive, even in the area’s poor soil, which has been degraded by years of rapid land conversion for industrial development. These trees will provide shade, a simple step which is proven to reduce temperatures and improve airflow in urban areas.    

The planting was carried out by a large team of volunteers from FedEx, who demonstrated their dedication, and the commitment of their company, to environmental preservation. 

(Above) More than 50 FedEx team members took part in the project, which successfully planted 300 new trees around the GIIC in Bekasi.

“We’re excited to bring our team here together with Trees4Trees,” explained Thompson during the tree-planting activities. “We have more than 50 people from our team helping out today,” he added, before noting that this kind of activity will help engender an environmental mindset among employees moving forwards. “It’s a great opportunity to instill a sense of responsibility to give back and to find ways to contribute to a sustainable environment,” he added. 

Dewi Herniani, Vendor Clearance Manager at FedEx, found the experience especially meaningful. Raised in a village close to nature, she was excited to reconnect with the environment through this initiative. “We were each assigned six trees for planting today, but I’m happy that I managed to plant 10,” she said proudly. Dewi hopes to participate in more activities like this, as part of FedEx’s ongoing sustainability program. “If no one cares about greening the environment, and the world ends up without trees, what would it look like? That’s why I believe it’s important for us to act together,” she added. 

(Above) Dewi Herniani, FedEx Indonesia Vendor Clearance Manager, gets her hands dirty and commits to making an impact through urban forestry.

Contributing to FedEx’s Carbon Reduction Goals 

As a global logistics company, FedEx understands the importance of contributing to environmental sustainability. During the event, Thompson noted that tree-planting activities like this contribute to FedEx’s wider sustainability mission. 

“We place a big emphasis on sustainability in our business,” he said. “Our target at FedEx is to be carbon neutral by 2040 and this tree-planting activity plays a big role in helping us achieve that.” Thompson also added that this sustainability goal is a priority, not only for the company, but also for its customers.  

Rahmat Fauzi works in the FedEx Customer Service team. He confirmed that environmental preservation is an integral part of FedEx’s corporate culture. “FedEx is focusing on creating linkages between company, community, and environment. By working together, we can achieve positive impacts,” he said.

(Above) Adi Gani, Trees4Trees’ Project Manager, presents a tree-planting certificate to Garrick Thompson, Managing Director of FedEx Indonesia.
Earth Day
(Above) FedEx employees carefully planted the new saplings together, then watered them and added fertilizer to give the new growth a good chance of survival.

A Shared Responsibility for a Greener Future 

Dewi believes caring for the environment isn’t just a corporate responsibility, but an important path for individuals to follow too. “At FedEx, we’re not just working – each of us has a role in protecting the environment,” before adding that “we all breathe the same air; planting trees is something anyone can do to produce cleaner air, even starting with just one tree.” 

Rahmat added that FedEx’s culture encourages both the company and individuals to act together for the environment, while also giving back to nature and communities. “Humans and nature are connected,” he said. “If we protect nature, it protects us; if we harm it, it harms us back. Initiatives like this are a way to ensure better environmental sustainability in the future,” he added. 

The 300 new trees planted by the FedEx team are expected to grow strong and support a healthier environment in the industrial area, helping reduce carbon emissions and air pollution, increase green cover to cool the climate, and bring lasting benefits to surrounding areas. With support from Trees4Trees, FedEx Indonesia is furthering their sustainability mission and helping to secure a greener, cleaner future for Jakarta’s urban areas. 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Editor: Chris Alexander. Photos: Kemas Duga Muis 

Bali Reforestation: Preserving Water, Local Livelihoods, and Cultural Heritage

Bali

When people think of Bali, they often picture a world-famous tourist destination with stunning beaches, majestic mountains and hills, and a rich cultural heritage showcased through traditional dances, art performances, and iconic architectures. And while that’s all true, Bali is much more than just a tourist destination.  

This island is home to vibrant marine and coastal ecosystems, protected forests, thriving agriculture, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in local wisdom. It includes Subak, a traditional irrigation system which reflects the deep connection between nature, community, and tradition. 

However, Bali now faces growing environmental threats, including population growth and deforestation caused by land conversion and excessive land use. These threats not only lead to environmental degradation but also put local livelihoods and traditional practices like Subak at risk, including in the western part of the island, specifically in Melaya District of Jembrana Regency. 

Agricultural Practice and Subak Irrigation System in Melaya 

Unlike other regions of Bali, where tourism dominated, Melaya communities depend primarily on agriculture. Rice, coconut, and cacao are the district’s key agricultural products.  

“Cacao production, in particular, has made one of villages in Melaya District, Ekasari Village, renowned as the largest and best cacao producer in Bali,” said Rusmanto Manulang, the Trees4Trees Field Coordinator for Bali. 

Bali Reforestation
Cacao trees grow alongside coconut trees in agroforestry systems in Ekasari Village, both key agricultural products in Melaya.

Melaya, where also a home to West Bali National Park and traversed by Sangiang Gede river, practices organic farming and as much of Bali, the agriculture is deeply intertwined with Subak, a traditional irrigation system recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012. The district has 19 Subak sites, spanning over villages, sustaining this centuries-old irrigation system. 

Believed to date back to 9th century, the Subak system follows sustainable and rotational methods, where local farmers work in organized groups, taking turns irrigating rice fields while others grow alternative crops. Water is distributed through irrigation water tunnels network, ensuring equitable access and making water availability crucial.  

“In Melaya, local farmers uphold this practice, working together hand in hand, not only to secure their livelihoods, but also preserve the cultural traditions,” Rusmanto added. 

Tuwed village
Rice fields span Tuwed Village, one of Trees4Trees’ tree-planting locations.

Read also: How Do Trees Conserve Water?

Land Degradation in Melaya and the Role of Forest in Water Conservation 

Among Bali’s regencies, Jembrana has the largest forest area, with 49% – approximately 41,307-hectare of its land, covered in forest, according to Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MOEF) in 2021. Most of these are protected forests, serving as habitats for diverse wildlife and sustaining water resources in the region.  

The regency is also traversed by 40 rivers, some flowing into Melaya district, playing a vital role in supporting the Subak irrigation system. This includes the Sangiang Gede river (Tukad Sangiang Gede in Balinese), the longest river in Jembrana, stretching 25,000 meters 

Bali Reforestation
Palasari Reservoir in Ekasari Village stores water of the Sangiang Gede river.

Despite the crucial link between intact forest and water availability, the Sangiang Gede watershed in Melaya district has experienced increasing environmental degradation in recent years, putting water sources at risk. Rapid population growth has led to land conversion for residential and agricultural expansion, resulting in deforestation, erosion that increases river sedimentation, flooding, and water shortages. These challenges threaten both local ecosystems and traditional farming practices.

“Some areas in Melaya Village experience flooding, especially after heavy rain. Meanwhile, in the neighboring Ekasari Village, residents struggle with water shortages during the dry season,” said Rusmanto.

Based on Trees4Trees’ spatial analysis, currently, over 29% of the land in Melaya district, especially in the Sangiang Gede river, has been affected by degradation. It highlights the urgent need for conservation and sustainable land management efforts.  

Trees4Trees Tree Planting: Restoring Nature, Strengthening Communities 

To help local communities address environmental challenges, protect livelihoods, and preserve Bali’s rich agricultural heritage, Trees4Trees is expanding its reforestation efforts on the island. Together with its supporters, Trees4Trees has recently planted over 17,000 trees across two villages in Melaya District: Tuwed and Ekasari. 

Bali Reforestation
Tree seedlings distribution in Tuwed Village.

Read also: Expanding Green: Trees4Trees Planting Season 2024-2025

Focusing on cacao and albizia trees, the initiative spans approximately 25 hectares.  It aims to support local farmers and protect forests bordering the villages, which are vital in sustaining the river supplies water to the Subak. With a long-term vision of restoring ecological balance, strengthening local economies, and safeguarding cultural traditions in Bali, Trees4Trees is committed to expanding this initiative in the years ahead.  

You can also participate in this reforestation program! Make a lasting impact on the environment, agriculture, and local communities in Bali by planting trees together with us.  

Contact us at info@trees4trees.treesforplant.com to learn more about how to get involved in the Bali Reforestation! 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Photos: Muhammad Ely Nezar & Rusmanto Manulang 

Supporting Women Farmers Through Reforestation in the Citarum Watershed

Supporting Women Farmers

Most people living upstream of the Citarum watershed, which spans West Bandung Regency in West Java, make their living from farming. For Sundanese – the main ethnic group in West Java – this is more than just a source of income. It is a tradition passed down through generations. Many of the farming community here are women, most of whom have been working the land from an early age. 

Over 5,000 woman farmers have participated in tree-planting activities since Trees4Trees first began its Citarum watershed reforestation efforts in 2021 (around a quarter of the total turnout). With funding support from AstraZeneca and One Tree Planted, these women have been able to preserve family traditions and improve their economic independence; their participation also highlights the key role women must play in restoring the environment and strengthening communities.  

Read also: The Story of Euis Maryati: Widowed and Planting Trees to Support Her Family

Family, Farming and Tradition: Continuing the Legacy in West Java  

“I’ve never left my village and have worked the soil with my family since I was a teenager,” explains Aisha (60), from Ancolmekar Village. She is one of many local women who have dedicated their lives to farming.  

Aisha joined Trees4Trees as a grower in 2021 and quickly demonstrated her exceptional skills. In 2022, she was recognized as one of the best farmers in the area. “My farming skills have improved over time,” she explains, “because farming has been my habit for decades, sharpening my ability to nurture every plant I grow.” 

Iis Hasanah (47), from Cijambu Village, spent 11 years working abroad as a household servant in Saudi Arabia before returning home to settle down and continue her family legacy of farming.  “After elementary school, my mother often brought me to the field,” she remembers, “which showed me how to sow seeds and grow trees and crops.” She now splits her time between farming and caring for her son, passing her skills on to the next generation. 

Iis Hasanah and Aisyah
Iis Hasanah (left) and Aisah (right) have determined to work the land and continue their family legacy.

Nurturing Families by Caring for Nature 

For some women, farming offers a connection to their roots. For others, it is a way to provide for their families. Maryati (43) from Kutawaringin Village began farming in her 20s to supplement her family’s income and put her two children through school.   

“In addition to shade trees, I chose to plant fruit and coffee trees due to their competitive prices,” says Maryati. “This way, I can help my husband earn additional income and save more money to secure our family’s economy.”  

Supporting Women Farmers
Maryati prunes the leaves of a burflower-tree, part of her daily commitment to care for trees she has planted.

Kokom, from Mekarjaya Village, has been farming for 10 years. On her plot measuring 700 sqm, she grows cassava and peanuts, along with fruit trees. “I sell fruits like avocado, along with coffee and cloves, to cover my children’s needs,” she says. “Crops like cassava, peanuts, and vegetables are for family consumption, which helps us save money on food.”  

Read also: Reviving Clean Water Access in Lebak Muncang Tourism Village: Elis’ Tree Planting Initiative

Women’s Empowerment: The Key to Environmental Preservation  

The active participation of women in Trees4Trees’ Citarum watershed restoration efforts demonstrate their determination to be productive. Andini Mulyani, a woman farmer from Mekarjaya Village, believes women are equally capable of contributing to their communities as men. “It’s not about competing with men,” she says, “but having equal opportunities and roles. Farming isn’t only for men, women can do it too.” 

Supporting Women Farmers
Kokom (left) and Andini Mulyani (right) believe women farmers are equally capable in contributing to both the community and environment.

Through the Citarum watershed reforestation initiative, women are given equal opportunities in tree-planting, including access to seedlings, training and capacity building, and various other benefits. These resources empower them, not only to contribute to their community and families, but to positively impact the surrounding environment. “We receive free seedlings, the yield is ours, and the training sessions help women farmers like us improve our knowledge,” says Iis. 

Despite living near the watershed, many areas in the Citarum watershed face drought and water scarcity. Aisha believes tree-planting activities enable women to collectively address these environmental challenges.  

“Drought, landslides, and water shortages are common issues here,” she says. “The planting initiative from Trees4Trees gives us the chance to preserve water, prevent disasters, and develop our livelihoods while improving the surrounding environment.” 

By empowering women farmers as tree-growing partners, Trees4Trees’ Citarum watershed reforestation program is restoring degraded lands and building community resilience to the impacts of climate change. Crucially, these positive impacts are rooted in local tradition and the principles of gender equality within sustainable social forestry practices. 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Editor: Chris Alexander. Photos: Zaki Luqman, Giri Satriyo, Adia Mufidz, Kemas Duga Muis for Trees4Trees 

Preventing Disasters, Empowering Communities of the Slopes of Mount Salak

Preventing Disasters

Mount Salak in Bogor, part of the Halimun-Salak National Park in West Java, serves as a key water catchment area, a significant carbon sink, and a habitat for at least 200 species of flora and fauna. This includes the Javan hawk eagle, a bird of prey that is threatened by extinction. Spanning over 113,000 hectares of conservation land, Mount Salak’s ecosystem not only protects the largest lowland rainforest in the region and supports biodiversity but also provides for communities in the surrounding area.  

However, heavy rainfall on the mountain can make its slopes highly susceptible to erosion, which can cause disastrous landslides and flooding. The surrounding Tamansari District is one of Mount Salak’s buffer areas most affected and is especially at risk during the rainy season. While the landscape may appear green at first glance, several open areas in and around the villages lack tree cover, leaving them vulnerable to environmental degradation. 

To help local communities address these issues and mitigate future impacts, and as part of their ongoing corporate sustainability program. Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia teamed up with Trees4Treesto implement a tree-planting project in the region.

CSR Sumitomo Group
Over 50 Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia employees planted trees to help prevent erosion in Tamansari Village, a Mount Salak buffer zone. 

Erosion Control and Improved Carbon Sequestration 

These actions are both timely and sorely needed. Just last year, Tamansari District was hit by a major landslide and flash flood. This followed similar disasters in 2021 and 2023, which seriously threatened the lives of villagers and uprooted local livelihoods. 

In response, Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia has committed to planting 2,000 trees around Tamansari Village in Tamansari District. This project aims to increase tree cover and reduce the risk of future landslides by controlling the erosion that can trigger potentially deadly disasters. 

Preventing Disasters
Five tree species including eucalyptus, burflower-tree, avocado, jackfruits, and langsat tree, were planted to enhance the environment and support local communities’ livelihoods.

“We chose the slopes of Mount Salak, part of the Citiis River watershed, due to their critical condition,” explains Adi Gani, Trees4Trees’ Project Manager, noting that several degraded open lands need to be restored. “We hope the trees we have planted will help reduce disaster risks, improve water catchment, and benefit local communities,” he says. 

Preventing Disasters
Joining as volunteers, the employees gain valuable knowledge on proper tree planting techniques, including watering and fertilizing.

Another major benefit of this program is its support for Mount Salak’s environmental role as a major carbon sink, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation in line with Sumitomo Group’s corporate sustainability goals. 

“We have a goal to reduce CO₂ emissions,” says Koji Imakita, President Director of Sumiden Serasi Wire Product, a subsidiary of Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia, who participated as a tree-planting volunteer. “While we recognize that the number of trees we have planted is relatively small, this is a significant step forward in our mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”  

Plant a Planet: Seeding a More Sustainable Future 

Various employees of Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia and its subsidiaries joined together to volunteer in tree-planting activities coordinated by Trees4Trees. The program, themed ‘Plant a Planet’, demonstrates the company’s dedication to environmental sustainability as part of its corporate responsibility commitments. 

Preventing Disasters
Hand in hand, Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia successfully planted 800 trees, while another 1,200 trees were planted with the involvement of local communities.

“Previously, we planted mangroves, and now we’re expanding to tree planting in a different location,” said Mulyadi, a volunteer and HR Community Representative from one of Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia’s subsidiaries. “We hope this initiative will make positive impacts, because a healthy planet is the greatest legacy we can leave behind for future generations.” 

Mario Eko Cumentas is the Chairperson of Sumitomo Electric Group Indonesia Area Committee. He confirmed that the current initiative forms part of the company’s global commitment to environmental preservation and its support for local communities. “Our main goal is to contribute to environmental sustainability so that nature, in turn, continues to support life for future generations,” said Mario. “This includes local communities living in the vicinity,” he added. 

Gohoyoshi: A Commitment to Positive Community Impact 

As a company with Japanese roots, Sumitomo Group upholds a core principle of Gohoyoshi, also known as the ‘five-way win’ approach, which represents the company’s commitment to create positive outcomes for all stakeholders. This includes employees, suppliers, customers, stockholders, and socially vulnerable communities. A key aspect of this tree-planting initiative is the central role of local communities.  

“This tree-planting initiative is very important to us,” explains Koji Imakita. “At Sumitomo Group Indonesia, we follow Gohoyoshi, or the Five-Way Win, as our business philosophy, which prioritizes community well-being. And that’s why we strive to contribute as much as we can to the local communities around us.” 

Guided by the spirit of Gohoyoshi, the company’s sustainability programs not only aim to benefit stakeholders, including local communities, but also to support a healthier environment. This, in turn, supports long-term success and business sustainability. Together with Trees4Trees, Sumitomo Group is helping turn these commitments into tangible impacts for people and planet. 

 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Editor: Chris Alexander. Photos: Yulianisa Dessenita 

Plan a Perfect Nature Date

Plan a Perfect Nature Date

While the digital era offers countless ways to connect, including online dating, many are rediscovering the joy of real-world connection. Simple pleasures like going on park dates, reading books side by side, or going camping are growing in popularity, even amidst the excitement of online world.  

If you and your loved one enjoy exploring nature, taking in a scenic view, or engaging in outdoor activities, nature dates could be a perfect way to strengthen your bond and grow your relationship through an eco-friendly, real-world connection. In this article, we will share nature-inspired date ideas and tips to bring you closer to each other, along with the many benefits of embracing the beauty of the natural world in your romantic moments. 

Why are nature activities good for you? 

Spending time in nature can be a refreshing reset from your daily routines, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Shifting your focus from computer screens and piled-up work to green spaces, blue skies, and ocean allows you to take a break for a while, then return to your routine feeling more refreshed and productive. Immersing yourself in nature also gives your body a healthy workout, and, most importantly, allows you to breathe fresh air that’s good for your lungs. 

While offering so many benefits for your mental and physical health, enjoying nature with someone you love is also wonderful for strengthening your relationship. Sharing outdoor experiences with your partner offers quality time that helps you understand each other better and perhaps fall in love all over again. 

Read also: 10 eco-friendly activity ideas to enjoy with loved ones  

Plan a Perfect Nature Date

Photo: Pexels

What to prepare for a romantic nature date 

A nature date doesn’t mean sacrificing romance! Here are some ideas to help you plan a romantic nature date! 

Pick the perfect place  

Whether it’s going to a hill, waterfall, beach, lake, or just taking a cozy walk through an urban forest, choosing the right location is key. You can decide on a place you both love, or if you want to have a little surprise, pick a destination your partner has always dreamed of visiting.  

Plan meaningful activities  

Plan activities that bring you closer together and create lasting memories. This could involve watching the sunset together at the beach, camping on a hilltop to catch a breathtaking sunrise, fishing at a serene lake, or having a perfect picnic in the park. For an even deeper connection, volunteering together for an environmental cause, like planting trees, or restoring mangrove forest can be a perfect activity.  

You can contact us to learn more about organizing a tree-planting event and participating as a volunteer! 

Set the mood and ambience  

A love story isn’t complete without the right ambiance! Enhance the romantic atmosphere by packing a delicious picnic, decorating your tent with fresh flowers, or adding solar-powered fairy lights for a magical glow while camping. Playing soft music can also add to the romantic feel.

Express your love through nature 

Expressing love can be even more wonderful in a natural setting. Gift your partner a meaningful piece of eco-friendly gift, like a bouquet of flowers or a planted tree with a certificate with your partner’s name on it. Not only does it create a memorable experience but also leaves a lasting, positive impact on the planet. You can gift a planted tree through us. Click here to learn more!

Arda dan Tantri Kotak

The benefits of a nature date 

Going green on your date brings benefits to your relationship and love life, mental and physical health, and helps the planet. So, what rewards can you gain from a nature date? 

Reduce waste and carbon footprint  

Opting for eco-friendly date activities helps lower your carbon footprint. Planning a picnic sustainably, plastic-free packaging, or giving an eco-friendly gift further minimizes waste. By making mindful choices, you’re not only creating memorable moments together but also showing love for the planet.  

Encourage meaningful conversations 

Spending time in nature offers the perfect setting for heart-to-heart conversations. It allows you to have much time to connect deeply with your partner, sharing dreams, reminiscing, and strengthening your bond without digital distractions. 

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just trying a sustainable date for the first time, these simple yet meaningful experiences can create an unforgettable moment, blending romance and love for the environment. So, why not plan a nature date this Valentine’s Day? Surprise your partner with an eco-friendly adventure that nurtures your love and the planet! 

 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Photo: Yulianisa Dessenita, Pexels

Learning Love from Trees

Trees

Photo: Pexels

Green, shady, and life-giving. Trees are truly nature’s incredible gifts. They are uniquely beautiful creations on Earth, but most importantly, we depend on their existence to live. 

As we walk through green spaces, have we ever paused to appreciate just how much trees give us? Their benefits go far beyond their beauty, with their roots bind soil and water, keeping the land fertile and securing water sources. Their branches and dense canopies protect us from storms and scorching sun, regulating the temperature. They also have incredible ability to filter pollutants, giving us clean air to breathe.  

Trees are indeed essential to life on Earth, but did you know they also teach us about love? 

From their life cycle to their resilience through changing seasons, trees teach us that love is something that continues to grow. It is about sincerity, sacrifice, giving, and nurturing life around us. Trees also remind us that love is universal, embracing everyone and every living thing in our surroundings. So, what can we learn from trees? Here are inspiring lessons we can learn about love from trees!  

Unconditional Love 

Like true love, trees give everything without asking for anything in return. They provide all living beings with air, water, food, shelter, and medicine, which all of them are everything we need to survive.  

From trees, we learn to give love, show kindness, and help those in need wholeheartedly without expecting reward or something in return. Let your kindness and love flow unconditionally, just like trees nurture all life around them! 

Learning Love from Trees

Patient and Resilience 

Trees grow through changing seasons and sometimes face harsh conditions. Likewise, love can also be challenging, and it needs patience and resilience. Just as trees stand firm and endure tough weather, they teach us the value of perseverance in love. Strong and deep love takes time to grow, and patience and steadfastness are essential to nurturing a love that lasts through all seasons of life. 

Growing  

Trees continue to grow and evolve over time. Regardless of the weather and the conditions, they persist in their growth. Interestingly, they grow by following the direction of light. This reminds us that love also needs to grow in a positive way, adapting well to change. It may take time to develop, but once love grows strong, just like mature trees that provide shelters, bear fruits, and support life, love can bring happiness, offer help and support to one another. 

Learning Love from Trees

Encouraging and Protecting Each Other 

Research showed that trees can communicate with each other and thrive better when growing together in a community. Trees communicate through mycorrhizal networks, an underground fungal network connecting their roots. This network allows them to share resources and information. Through their roots, they communicate and exchange information about water availability, nutrient levels, and other environmental conditions. Furthermore, they also release chemical signals into the soil, allowing nearby trees to detect. This incredible system allows trees to protect and support one another. From this, we learn that communication, encouragement, and mutual care are essential elements of love.  

Read also: Easy Ways to Show Love Languages to Mother Earth 

Embracing Differences to Create Harmony  

Diverse tree species grow together in forests. They interact with each other and create a balanced and harmonious ecosystem. This teaches us that every individual is unique, with different characteristics, way of thinking, appearance and background. But true love lies in appreciating those differences, embracing them, and using diversity to create harmony of life.  

Learning Love from Trees

For centuries, trees have symbolized vital aspects of life, including courage, wisdom, resilience, protection, and longevity. Beyond sustaining life, they also offer profound lessons about love: unconditional giving, patience, growth, and harmony. This February, as we celebrate love, let us extend it beyond ourselves. Join us in planting trees. Like love, each tree we plant today will continue to grow, protect, and provide for generations to come. Plant trees with us!  

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Photo: Yulianisa Dessenita, Kemas Duga Muis, Pexels