Two worlds that could not be more different, but have one goal: A Race We Must Win. The Wild Camp Advernture group plants trees for Mama Earth (left). Boris Herrmann thunders across the oceans with his new racing machine and collects valuable data via sensors that are scientifically analysed and uses his fame for environmental projects, such as the Malizia Mangrove Park in Mati.
The combed impression is created by cutting into the tall-growing gorgan grass for the freshly planted trees.
A drone shot from Patag, Marilog. Although the weather is quite reliable in the mountains, unexpected rainfall can still occur. The hut in the middle is used to give the workers a roof over their heads during downpours and to wait out the showers, which are usually short. As temperatures drop sharply from the afternoon onwards, it is better not to get wet so as not to give colds a chance. It can happen that only 19 degrees Celsius are measured at night, but the usually strong wind lowers the temperature by several degrees.
Fortunately, the tough Gorgon grass has protected the topsoil of the once forested mountains from erosion. This makes it possible to reforest. The land consumption is enormous due to our cultivation method, because the trees grow at intervals of four by four metres, which is ideal according to current forestry knowledge, as enough nutrients are available to the individual tree. But there is enough land available.
Due to the strong emergence of local tourism, many construction projects are being pushed forward. Almost all roads are concreted to make them passable even after rainfall, resorts and restaurants, petrol stations and holiday homes are being built, but mostly only in the immediate vicinity of the already concreted roads. Thousands of square kilometres lie fallow, waiting for reforestation programmes.
Very slowly, the realisation is taking hold that it won’t work without trees. No trees, no rain, the formula is as simple as that. No living thing can live without water. When the breweries in Davao City start to promote plantations, it is not a sign of closeness to nature, but the knowledge that without good water from the mountains, good beer cannot be brewed. And Filipinos love beer.
We will soon start a joint project with the Philippine Eagle Foundation and reforest 22 hectares. The Philippine eagle impresses not only with its body size, but also with its bold beauty. It needs more trees to build nests. We are happy to help. More on this next month.
