FAQ’s

What kind of organisation is Reforest Nation?

Reforest Nation is a social enterprise with a for-profit structure. Our mission is to provide a service that helps restore nature by planting trees and creating natural spaces that allow ecosystems to recover. We also fund important projects that contribute to environmental restoration. Just as some companies might build homes or provide products, our work is to create thriving natural habitats. When you purchase a membership or gift a tree, you’re directly supporting this mission and helping to create a greener future. We believe this is the most impactful way to contribute to a healthier planet while keeping our operations sustainable.

Where does Reforest Nation get its funding?

Our primary funding comes from individuals and businesses who believe in our mission and support us through memberships and tree gifts. These contributions are the lifeblood of our work, enabling us to plant trees, restore ecosystems, and create thriving natural spaces. In addition to these individual and corporate supporters, we collaborate with corporate partners and environmentally focused organisations. These partnerships allow us to expand our reach and amplify our environmental impact, helping us achieve our goal of restoring biodiversity on a larger scale.

Where do we plant trees in Ireland?

We plant trees in a variety of locations across Ireland, from lush forests to coastal landscapes. Each tree planted by our supporters is carefully allocated to planting sites where it can make the most significant environmental impact. Whether it’s the rolling hills of Wicklow or the rugged coasts of Donegal, every site is selected with the goal of restoring Ireland’s natural beauty and creating resilient ecosystems that can thrive for generations.

Can I volunteer with Reforest Nation to plant trees?

Absolutely! We welcome volunteers with open arms. Whether you’re passionate about environmental restoration or just looking for a way to give back, there’s a place for you in our community. Volunteering with Reforest Nation offers a hands-on opportunity to connect with nature and make a direct impact. We regularly post volunteer opportunities on our website, where you can find all the details about upcoming planting events and how to get involved. Click here to see upcoming volunteer opportunities and events.

Can Reforest Nation help restore my land?

We do offer a “Trees for Your Land” programme for landowners who are interested in restoring their property. While we prioritise larger areas for our ecosystem restoration projects, we encourage everyone to apply. If your land isn’t selected for a large-scale project, we may still be able to provide you with free trees to help you create your own nature haven. This is a fantastic way to contribute to local biodiversity and help your land flourish.

Who are our international partners?

We work with key global partners to extend our restoration efforts beyond Ireland:

• Eden People + Planet: In Madagascar, we help restore critical mangrove ecosystems. By employing local women, we not only restore nature but also provide sustainable livelihoods for communities.

• Seedballs Kenya: This initiative is all about empowering local farmers in Kenya. By distributing seedballs, we help them regenerate native forests and increase biodiversity in regions that need it most.

What kind of trees do we plant?

We focus exclusively on planting native Irish trees, which are essential for supporting local wildlife and preserving the natural landscape. Our commitment to biodiversity means we plant the widest variety of species of any organisation in Ireland. Most of our trees are sourced locally, ensuring they are well-suited to thrive in their environment and contribute to the resilience of Ireland’s ecosystems.

How do you safeguard the trees you plant?

We work closely with local land stewards and tree projects to ensure the long-term survival of every tree we plant. These partners are committed to ongoing care and maintenance, helping the trees establish themselves and flourish. Where necessary, we also implement protective measures, such as fencing, to guard against natural predators. Our goal is to ensure that the trees we plant continue to grow and contribute to their ecosystems for many years to come.

What is the carbon impact of a tree?

The carbon impact of a single tree is profound. On average, a tree can sequester between 0.25 and 5 kilograms of CO2 in its first year alone. While this is a conservative estimate, it underscores the significant role that tree planting plays in the fight against climate change. Every tree planted not only absorbs carbon but also contributes to a healthier and more sustainable planet.

Who is behind Reforest Nation?

Reforest Nation was founded by Gearóid Mc Evoy, who has a background in ecology. This knowledge helps guide our efforts to restore ecosystems in a way that truly benefits the environment. We’re a small but passionate team, with most of us working on a volunteer basis. Even though we’re small, we’re dedicated to making a real impact and doing what we can to help restore Ireland’s natural landscape.