Restoring Land In Senegal

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 restoring land in Senegal, and this is why:

The Issues In Senegal:

The Sahel region, a vast climatic zone stretching 5,400 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Red Sea in the east, lies between the Sahara desert to the north and the Sudanian savanna to the south. Characterized by its tropical, semi-arid climate, the Sahel often experiences extended periods without rainfall. In recent years, droughts have become more frequent and severe, with a notable example occurring between June and August 2010. During this period, extremely high temperatures combined with a lack of rain led to widespread famine and illness across the region. These extreme weather patterns have been exacerbated by climate change, making the Sahel one of the most affected areas in the world. The livelihoods of the people in this region are becoming increasingly precarious as they struggle with the impacts of climate change.

The Sahel’s hot and dry conditions contribute to rampant desertification. Land that once supported vibrant ecosystems is becoming barren, with fertile soils turning to dust. In Senegal, desertification and land degradation are major contributors to low agricultural productivity, resulting in poor food security, limited job opportunities, and increased migration from rural areas as people seek work and sustainable livelihoods. According to the Senegalese NGO Enda Energie, 34% of Senegal’s arable land is affected by desertification, leading to the loss of over 30% of the country’s forests.

Other factors contributing to land degradation and desertification in the Sahel include overgrazing, deforestation, and unsuitable agricultural practices. Without intervention, local communities risk losing access to the fertile land necessary for their survival.

Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Fortunately, there are straightforward and effective solutions available, such as tree planting and ecosystem restoration. Planting trees in the Sahel helps mitigate and adapt to climate change, fostering the reestablishment of healthy ecosystems in areas previously threatened by land degradation and desertification. These efforts not only restore the land’s productivity but also support local communities by providing sustainable sources of food and income.

Through concerted efforts in tree planting and sustainable land management practices, the Sahel region can begin to recover from the devastating effects of desertification, securing a more resilient and prosperous future for its inhabitants.

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  Hommes et Terre (H&T) who’s mission is to develop and execute large-scale reforestation and land management programs to give long-term sufficient fertile land. 

What We’ve Planted So Far

We’ve planted 29 Acacia nilotica, which have a wide range of uses! The roots have been shown to help with cancers and tumors, they can help with TB and improve the health of the liver and spleen, the leaves have microbial properties that help with bowl issues and also provide anti-inflammatory properties and current research shows it may help with Alzheimer’s disease!

It can grow up to 25m high and is loved by communities for its lumber, and its abilities for food and medicine and it’s also loved by cattle!

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.