One Tree Planted Wins 1% for the Planet Nonprofit Changemaker Award

Founded in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard of Patagonia and Craig Mathews of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for the Planet is rooted in the premises of corporate responsibility and ecological restoration. They firmly believe that “because companies profit from the resources they take from the earth, they should protect those resources.” What began as an idea and a shared sense of responsibility between two guys that love the outdoors has blossomed into a global movement with over 2,000 members in 45 countries.

How does it work? 

Businesses join the network and commit to donating the equivalent of 1% of their gross sales every year (individuals can pledge 1% of their salary, too!). They then provide a combination of monetary and promotional support to environmental nonprofits like us. 1% also facilitates partnerships between their member businesses and nonprofits to make the biggest impact possible. This model has proven incredibly effective: to date, over $225 million dollars have been given to thousands of vetted environmental nonprofits, fueling good work everywhere.

We’re fortunate to be part of this incredible global coalition, because it allows One Tree Planted to connect with businesses, coordinate with other nonprofits, and—most importantly—plant more trees! In the face of global issues like climate change and deforestation, global coalitions like this are essential to bridging the gap between setting and reaching goals.

From Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet: 

“Our annual People for the Planet Awards celebrate our members and nonprofit partners who exemplify shared values and attributes that make our movement stronger and that illuminate the path for others to follow. Each one of our awards recognizes a different strand in the weave of our powerful network. Our Nonprofit Changemaker of 2019 Award honors a nonprofit who made a significant, innovative or unique contribution addressing one of our issue areas of climate, food, land, pollution, water or wildlife. We’re thrilled to honor One Tree Planted; they are responding to climate disasters in a positive way which has lasting environmental, economic and social impacts—both locally and globally.”

Kate also has a great personal journey we're happy to be part of.

Why did One Tree Planted win?

We're not sure if it's because of our love of tree puns, quality storytelling, or simple impact metrics, but we do know that reforestation is an essential part of sustainability and climate resilience. 

Planting trees can help restore damaged ecosystems, stabilize soil, support the water cycle, and slowly recover the vital ecosystem services that we all depend on. It can also bring people together, heal communities, and stimulate local economies. We’re grateful to all of the amazing people and organizations that make it possible for us to do what we love. As long as there’s a need, we’ll be out there planting trees!

Want to join us? Learn more about our current projects here.

by Meaghan Weeden 

Forest Whisperer