Ámaxa’s Global Student-Led Community Service Project: Planting Trees for a Greener Future

Picture this: students from three different countries, all coming together to do something truly remarkable for our planet. Well, that’s precisely what is occurring with this amazing ámaxa team! A group of students from Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, and California teamed up to plant trees in their own communities and make a positive change for the environment. Let’s dive into the fantastic journey they embarked upon!

Facing Unique Challenges

Each place had its own set of challenges when it came to planting trees. In Saudi Arabia, the arid desert landscape meant water, sunlight, and sufficient space were hard to come by, making tree growth a tricky task. However, these brilliant students came up with a smart idea — they planted the tree on a rooftop! By planting the tree above the ground, it could soak up plenty of sunshine without hogging up space on the ground. This tactic required extra work, but this team was up to the task. Having a tree on a rooftop requires constant monitoring and repotting as the plant grows. This cohort of bright individuals carefully selected the unique Harry Lauder Walking Stick Tree that could thrive in the harsh desert conditions.

In Vietnam, they wanted to plant a special type of tree that was well suited for the climate, but getting their hands on a tree sapling proved to be a bit of a challenge. There were very few plant nurseries in the area, and none that had the tree this team was looking for. However, these innovative minds quickly turned things around and came up with a fun solution: a book exchange! By swapping books for tree saplings, they not only spread the message of tree planting but also sparked a love for reading within their community.

Tracking Growth and Environmental Impact

To ensure that their trees were healthy and contributing positively to the environment, the students kept a close eye on their progress. With guidance from the team leader, Sofia, each member of the cohort measured and noted their tree’s height, age, species, and circumference. This helped them figure out how much carbon dioxide the trees were absorbing — a significant help in combating climate change. These measurements were essential for calculating carbon sequestration: the process in which carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere. The team researched a formula for calculating carbon sequestration and used it to understand and improve the positive environmental impact they were creating. Additionally, each member of the cohort carefully monitored the trees’ water needs and how much sunlight they required to ensure healthy development.

Collaborating Across the Globe

Even though the team was spread across the globe, these determined students didn’t let distance get in their way. Thanks to the wonders of technology, they held regular video calls to connect and share updates. Sofia took on the role of a mini-teacher, presenting fascinating insights about trees and everything related to acquiring and protecting their new trees. Aside from the work they did for this project, the team also built strong friendships and learned a great deal from one another.

Planting the Seeds of a Greener Future

This ámaxa project was not a short-term endeavor. It kicked off in early June 2023 and will continue its green mission until late August. The team devised a schedule to ensure task completion by August.

June: The team researched trees that were well suited for different global environments, strategies to ensure healthy tree growth, and places to plant trees in their communities.
July: The team set their sights on purchasing and planting their trees. Once the trees were in their possession and planted, they began monitoring the health of the trees.
August: The team will focus on observing the trees and calculating carbon sequestration. While this is occurring, they plan to spread information about what they have learned and inspire others to take interest in the well-being of the planet.

However, it does not stop there. Sofia and the team wanted to create a ripple effect: they aim to inspire more people around them to join the tree-planting movement. Their passion and commitment do not end with their own trees; they want to see a world where everyone pitches in to make the planet greener and more sustainable.

What can we take away from this?

The ámaxa project stands tall as a testament to the incredible impact students can have when they unite for a shared cause. Across deserts, urban spaces, and diverse landscapes, they demonstrate that real change can happen when young minds put their hearts into something they deeply care about. By planting trees and spreading knowledge, they have set a shining example for all of us. Hopefully, we can all follow their lead and work together to cultivate a bright, greener future for generations to come!