This post is not sponsored in any way – I just love this app!

Did you know you can contribute to reforestation efforts that help revitalize the earth and communities around the world just by walking?

In partnership with the popular web search company, Ecosia, which uses revenue from searches and ads to plant trees, the Treecard App makes getting involved with climate restoration efforts accessible.

All you have to do is walk!

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As a reward, you receive 50 points which can be collected and redeemed for experiential or tangible planet-friendly rewards. The rewards are separated into different categories so you can choose which ones speak to you. Here are some examples from the different categories:

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How the walking function works: Earth-friendly companies pay Treecard to feature their items in the rewards section (which you can then go on to redeem), and to act as a “walking sponsor” when you’re looking at the steps screen. In addition, many users who use the walking function also use the wooden debit card, which brings in money through merchant transaction fees.

Although Treecard’s main focus is bringing in money through merchant transaction fees when people use their debit card (which is very cute, by the way), this walking function acts as an easy option for those who want to quickly start making a difference in the climate movement without making a huge change to daily routine. Walking is encouraged, because when you walk, you aren’t using other carbon-emitting forms of transportation. 

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Does Treecard actually plant trees and contribute to reforestation?

Yes! Through their planting partners, Ecosia, Instituto Espinhaço, and Eden Reforestation Projects, over 1 million trees have been planted in over 30 countries including Brazil, Cameroon, the United Kingdom, Senegal, Ethiopia, and Australia. On the “Discover” section of the Treecard App, you can learn more about these partners, as well as view photos and updates from specific reforestation projects. 

Unlike other tree planting schemes where trees are simply planted and left to survive on their own with no caretaking, Treecard’s partners are committed to nurturing and maintaining the health and longevity of the tree. The landscapes and history of the area are also studied so the proper trees are planted in a way that encourages their growth.

According to Treecard, “When planting trees, we need to make sure the new forest ecosystem can function properly. Trees are only planted in deforested areas where historically there have been trees – often in the shape of a forest, but that could also mean widespread savannah trees. If there is an area where trees used to grow naturally, we know this area offers an environment where trees can actually thrive…A landscape approach supports nature and people by building corridors, capturing water or changing the local climate positively. We make sure planting trees works in a wider sense and that the activities we support do not stand in isolation.”

Why plant trees?

Maintaining tree poopulations is incredibly important for the earth, the health of communities, and animals. According to Treecard, “Trees are tremendously helpful in creating value to farmers and communities. They can prevent erosion, create a stable microclimate for other crops, restore the water systems or provide new means of income. But in the poorest agricultural regions of our planet, communities and farmers do not have the means to start tree-planting and restoration on a larger scale. It’s hard to find private investments because there’s no return within three years, and public financing carries large administrative burdens. By planting in these areas, we are employing local communities and giving farmers an attractive alternative to selling their land for monoculture production.”

Still have questions?

Check out Treecard’s FAQ here.

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