Trocaire is planting trees in the developing world, and they’re literally the Christmas gift that keeps on giving

Because a tree is for life, not just for Christmas.

This has been the year where there wider world woke up to the realities of climate change. Spurned on by the likes of Great Thunberg, we are all keenly aware of the need for positive environmental action. As we head into the traditional season of excess, families across the country are beginning to question whether they really need to fill their houses with mountains of wrapping paper and 'just in case' food, and taking steps to have a more sustainable celebration. Sustainability is also at the heart of Trocaire's Christmas message. The charity has just launched its annual  'Gifts of Love' campaign, which sees Irish people buy presents of everything from honey bees to farming tools to send to the developing world. And for the first time, Trocaire has included the option of giving the gift of a tree. It's priced at €85, which is too steep for a stocking filler (seeds and tools for €15 is a nice option in that category) but could make a meaningful gift for your kids to give to a grandparent. Not only does it teach your little ones about charity, but they can learn about the environment too. By planting trees native to their country, communities can make a lasting difference to their environment, as celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin explained at the campaign launch:

“Considering my own work, I’m particularly enthused to see that Trócaire have added a gift of trees this year. Trees can do so much to protect and preserve farms and land – they provide nutrients to the soil, which allow crops to grow, they can prevent landslides during rainy season and they help to reduce flooding.

“Trees are also a vital source of shade for crops, they retain moisture to help prevent droughts during the dry season and their leaves provide essential fertiliser for the soil.

“The wood from trees can be used for firewood and buildings. Trees allow food to grow, protect crops and allow people to build homes. They are essential for daily life in rural communities around the world."

A tree under the tree seems like the perfect sustainable gift for Christmas 2019. Photography by Mark Stedman.