Green Earth Foundation Tree Planting Project Launches in North Africa

The Green Earth Foundation is proud to announce the launch of a new large-scale tree planting project in North Africa, expanding our reforestation efforts to the North of Sahara Desert. This initiative marks another important step in our long-term mission to restore dryland ecosystems and build climate resilience across regions most affected by desertification.

Beginning December 2025, the project aims to plant 500,000 drought-resistant trees by the end of 2026, helping stabilize soil, improve biodiversity, and support healthier landscapes across northern Africa. This initiative is made possible through close collaboration with on-the-ground teams who bring deep regional knowledge and commitment to sustainable land restoration.

Northern Africa sits at a critical crossroads between Mediterranean ecosystems and desert environments. As climate conditions become increasingly unpredictable, strategic reforestation plays a key role in protecting land from erosion, enhancing water retention, and creating natural buffers against desert expansion. The Tangier region, in particular, offers an important opportunity to strengthen green corridors that connect coastal, agricultural, and inland landscapes.

Unlike Green Earth Foundation’s research-driven program in South Sahara, this project is designed as a large-scale planting initiative, focused on immediate and measurable environmental impact. Each tree planted contributes directly to long-term carbon sequestration, habitat creation, and landscape regeneration—while laying the groundwork for healthier ecosystems that can benefit surrounding communities.

This North Africa planting initiative brings together a carefully selected group of tree species, each chosen for its ecological resilience, environmental benefits, and long-term value to local communities.

At the heart of the project is the Argan tree (Argania spinosa), often called the “Tree of Life” in Morocco. Native to semi-arid regions, Argan trees can live for over 200 years and play a vital role in preventing soil erosion and desertification through their deep root systems. Beyond their ecological importance, Argan trees produce the world-renowned argan oil, widely used in food, cosmetics, and skincare, creating sustainable income opportunities—especially for women-led cooperatives.

The Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) is another cornerstone species. Well adapted to hot, dry climates, Carob trees provide edible pods used as food, animal feed, and natural food additives. Their dense canopy supports pollinators while their roots stabilize soil, making them ideal for multifunctional agroforestry systems.

To support land stabilization in challenging soils, the project also includes Tamarix species, which are highly tolerant of saline and degraded environments when planted within their native range. Carefully managed, they can help stabilize riverbanks, reduce wind erosion, and serve as buffer vegetation in harsh landscapes.

Finally, Poplar trees (Populus spp.) bring fast-growing benefits to the mix. Known for their strong carbon-sequestration capacity, poplars help establish green corridors, stabilize waterways, and quickly restore vegetation cover in suitable areas.

Together, these species form a balanced planting strategy—one that supports ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods across North Africa.

As planting begins, we look forward to sharing progress updates, site images, and milestones from the field. With every seedling placed in the ground, we move one step closer to a greener, more resilient future for North Africa and beyond.