Acacias for all

This project works closely with local farming communities to reverse the effect of desertification in Tunisia.

What is desertification?

Desertification is a process that erodes soil and destroys the microorganisms within them, slowly turning rich healthy soil into dust and arable farming land into barren deserts. Over decade-long periods, lively green fields are turned into cracked, dry, and desolate environments, hostile to any plants struggling to survive. Furthermore, desertification releases carbon in the soil and prevents the carbon capture properties of microorganisms from functioning.

Acacias for All is a reforesting effort that is halting desertification in Tunisia by planting walls of acacia trees across the region. Those participating in the efforts are largely made up of local rural populations, the project has 14 ambassadors across Tunisia.

The area has experienced increasing levels of water scarcity due to climate change, this project sought to combat the root cause - Desertification. They recently set the challenge of planting 1 million trees.

Farmers in the region typically use groundwater for their plants and tend to grow olives and almonds. The groundwater is saline, and harmful to the growth of these crops.

Feedback loops caused by the saline water further desertify the existing soil, damaging it over time and removing its potential as arable soil.

Planting acacia trees is a solution to this issue: the long roots penetrate deep underground, bringing fresh water to the surface and providing the soil with nitrogen. The roots fertilise the soil as well as preventing the damaging feedback loops caused by salt water.

The project was founded by Sarah Toumi in 2012 during her studies at university. Her story is one of intense commitment, courage, and drive to help her community despite setbacks and adversity faced along the way. The story is inspirational and can be read online here

See their video