Ethiopians break World Record, plant 353 million trees in one day

On Monday, 29th July, 2019, Dr Getahum Mekuria; Minister of Innovation and Technology, Ethiopia lodged a tweet  that stated the number of trees planted by the citizens throughout the day. This was estimated to be about 353 million trees in total. India held this title formerly since 2017 and they recorded the addition of 66 million trees.

The whole exercise was established on the basis of an initiative known as National Green Legacy Initiative and was created by Prime Minister Abir Ahmed. This was carried out for the purpose of combating the hazards as a result of deforestation and climate change and also restoring the landscape of the country.

The initial goal was to plant about 20 million trees in one day. But alas, they exceeded the  mark to arrive at 353 million trees. What a feat!!!!!  Every citizen was charged with the responsibility of planting at least for ceilings 40 seedlings including the civil servants. The overall objective was to  reach the mark of 4 million trees in total by the end of October 2019.

Several discussions, debates and countless summits have gone underway concerning the issue of climate change round the world including protests too. Studies have shown that afforestation is such an affordable and effective medium in reducing the effects of climate change. The trees are able to absorb the Carbon dioxide (in a process known as carbon capture). This is because the Carbon dioxide is one of the key elements in bringing about global warming. Therefore, if the trees are able to capture and control its prominence in the environment, the atmosphere of the environment will be more conducive for all.

It is truly remarkable to see response of Ethiopia in making it right for their country and the global environment at large. This is definitely a step in the right direction. We hope other countries will emulate this on a deliberate and large scale for the good of the universe.

Plant a tree today and save the planet!!!!