Planting for tomorrow: Restoring our lands and protecting our water in Grecia, Costa Rica.

Mariette Pepping

Sep 22

2 min read

This August, Fundema PP had the privilege of joining hands with incredible community leaders and corporate partners for two inspiring tree planting events in Grecia. As an organization dedicated to nature conservation, we were honored to stand alongside these organizations and support their vital initiatives to safeguard local ecosystems.

Two Key Landscapes, One Shared Purpose

Both events took place on former agricultural lands—previously used for coffee and tomato cultivation—that are now being transformed into protected, reforested green zones.

Zona Franca Evolution:
Located near the main highway in a rapidly growing area surrounded by new businesses and residential developments, this project integrates nature directly into Grecia's expanding urban corridor. Replanting trees here establishes vital green buffer zones and brings environmental balance to a bustling economic hub.
ASADA San Roque Old Coffee Plantation:
High in the mountains, this former coffee farm is now owned by ASADA San Roque, specifically acquired to protect the headwaters that supply drinking water to the San Roque community. Restoring forest cover on these upper slopes safeguards the community's water source right at its origin.

Why Replacing Crops with Trees Matters: 3 Key Environmental Benefits

Replacing old coffee and tomato fields with native trees brings wonderful, long-term benefits to our local environment:

Better Water Protection: Tree roots turn the soil into a natural sponge. Instead of rainwater quickly washing away, it sinks deep into the ground to refill the underground springs that supply our drinking water.
Healthier Land & Cleaner Streams: Stopping the use of agricultural chemicals allows the soil to heal naturally. Plus, without fertilizers and pesticides on these plots, our local rivers and creeks stay clean and clear.
Bringing Wildlife Back Home: Native trees create welcoming homes and food sources for birds, butterflies, and local wildlife, reconnecting green spaces so nature can move freely again.

Gratitude to Our Host Partners

We extend our deepest gratitude and recognition to the organizations that led and organized these impactful days in the field:

Johnson & Johnson
Code de Evolution / Zona Franca Evolution
ASADA San Roque

Thank you for bringing people together and taking decisive action for regional sustainability.

We were also grateful to hear inspiring words from Prof. Hámer Salazar, who welcomed everyone and reminded us why planting a single tree carries such profound significance for the future of our planet and local communities.

Help Us Continue Supporting Reforestation Across Grecia

Collaborating on events like these shows what is possible when companies, water boards, and community organizations unite for nature.

If you want to see more acres transformed from legacy farmland into thriving native forests, please consider making a donation to Fundema PP’s reforestation efforts today. Your financial support allows us to continue providing trees, tools, and technical support for vital planting projects across the region.