Desertification and land degradation are amongst the greatest natural challenges facing our region. With rapid urbanization and development, comes the associated problems of increased waste generation which in turn causes further degradation of the top soil. Tree planting is one of the most effective ways of reversing desertification by not only binding the topsoil but also helps in groundwater conservation.

The UAE celebrated its 17^th National Environment Day earlier this month and in keeping with our group, Green Hope UAE?s ethos of propagating sustainable development , we decided to mark this occasion by planting saplings. Our group members gathered early in the morning as this is a good time to plant , given the lower ambient temperature.

 The plants belong to a species called ?Jatropha?, which not only survive, but thrive in the hot climatic conditions of UAE. We feel that as responsible members of the society, we must do our bit from the environment.  Green Hope UAE wants to amend the general environmental apathy  through our actions.

 ?Stop Talking, Start Planting?  commended our action by posting on facebook – ?Looks as if our Global Board President Kehkashan cant stop planting? . Our work was also reported on other news media and we are glad the green word is spreading.

Green Hope UAE has planted over 500 saplings in the last 6 months as a part of their campaign to stop land degradation, since tree planting is one of the most effective ways of combatting it. Additionally, tree planting also reduces the carbon footprint and contributes positively to climate change.