We're Reforesting Andean Forests In Peru

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 Reforesting the Andean Forests of Peru, and this is why:

The Andes mountains, stretching along the western edge of South America, are home to some of the world’s most significant habitats, including the unique Polylepis forests. These forests are comprised of Polylepis trees, which can grow at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters above sea level, often forming the treeline just below Andean glaciers.

Polylepis forests play a crucial role in maintaining water security for millions of people. The trees and their extensive root systems help slow the movement of glacial meltwater, allowing for a gradual release into rivers and streams throughout the year. This natural process ensures a consistent water supply, which is essential for both agriculture in mountainous regions and for lowland towns and villages that rely on glacial meltwater. Additionally, the trees’ branches capture and harvest moisture from clouds, creating permanent streams that are vital for local communities. The Polylepis forests also prevent soil erosion and flooding, protecting homes and livelihoods.

Moreover, these forests help mitigate the impacts of climate change through evapotranspiration, a process that keeps the local climate cooler and wetter than it would be without the trees. Polylepis trees and the rich soils they support are important carbon sinks, playing a significant role in the global effort to combat climate change.

The biodiversity within these forests is remarkable, housing species such as Andean Condors, Spectacled Bears, and Pumas. As the climate continues to warm, these forests are becoming increasingly important as habitats for species migrating to cooler areas to escape rising temperatures.

Despite their importance, Polylepis forests in the Andes have been under threat from deforestation. Indigenous communities living near these forests are collaborating with local tree-planting organizations to protect the remaining native forests and restore deforested areas. This restoration work includes planting a variety of native species, with a focus on reintroducing Polylepis trees.

Planting Partner

As a flooring company, we don’t have the connections to be able to just plant trees wherever we like. We’re working with Ecologi, who’ve teamed up with Global Forest Generation (GFG). They’re a US based non-profit that address the challenges of large-scale forest ecosystems around the world. They work with small communities worldwide and around Peru they’re seeking to protect 500,000 hectares of Polylepis forest while restoring another 500,000 hectares. 

What We’ve Planted So Far

We’ve planted 30 Escallonia myrtilloides so far for this area. They’re a large bushy type of tree that grow well really high up, from 1,900 to 4,200 metres! They grow about 6m high and are well suited to rocky slopes, which makes them ideal for planting around the Andes Mountains!

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.