Planting Gardens in Uganda

Planting Trees? As a flooring company? You might think we’re mental, and we just might be, but since the start of 2024 we’ve been thanking our 5-star reviewers by planting a tree in their honour as part of our efforts to combat CO2. It’s an effort that started within the company in 2023 as we started to expand quicker than ever. There’s a lot we’re doing internally as a company, and the trees are one project we’ve made public. 

But less about us, more about the trees – we’re planting forests and gardens in Uganda, and this is why:

Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa on the shores of Lake Victoria, is home to over 45 million people. More than 20% of the population resides in the capital, Kampala. Uganda has experienced a significant population growth from around 5 million in 1950 to its current size, with a notably young demographic—nearly 70% of Ugandans are under the age of 25.

Forest Degradation

The region surrounding Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda has suffered extensive degradation due to deforestation and over-cultivation. The high population density in this area exacerbates the strain on the land, leading to severe degradation from activities such as animal grazing, tree-cutting for fuel wood, and intensive monoculture farming of crops like bananas and coffee. This environmental degradation has contributed to deadly landslides, posing serious safety risks to nearby communities.

The root of this land degradation lies in the conflict between harmful farming practices, such as monocultures—often a legacy of historical colonial impositions—and the sustainable needs of local people and ecosystems.

Planting Partner

As a flooring company, we don’t have the connections to be able to just plant mangroves wherever we like. We’re working with Ecologi, who’ve teamed up with  Trees For The Future. They’re a non-profit organisation in the US who identify farming families in areas with severely degraded land. They use a tried and tested “Forest Garden” programme that supports the farmers which teaches them to diversify their gardens with fruits and vegetables that both support their families nutritionally as well as financially. They learn about conservation and raise an income on the fruits and vegetables they grow. If together we can roll this out across Uganda then maybe we can turn around the deforestation!

What We’ve Planted So Far

We’ve planted 75 Acacia Polyacantha. These trees can grow up to 25m tall and have a range of uses! They’re mainly used to outline and protect the forest gardens, but they’re a great source of wood for construction as well as having medicinal properties; the root has chemical compounds that repel rats, snakes and crocodiles, the extract from the root can treat snakebites and also treat venereal diseases and gastrointestinal disorders! 

We’ve also planted 31 Avocado trees so far! Being a great source of healthy fats, potassium, a wide range of vitamins and minerals and antioxidants. They’ll be a great addition to the families diets and a popular choice in local markets!

Join Us in Making a Difference

At Easipay Carpets, we believe in giving back to the planet. For every 5-star review we receive, we plant a tree through our partnership with Ecologi. Together, we can contribute to vital reforestation efforts, restore ecosystems, and support local communities. Your positive feedback not only reflects our commitment to quality but also helps us make a tangible impact on the environment.

Thank you for helping us grow a greener future.