Technology for Change: Treecycler
Is it possible for a squirrel to run from Maine to Georgia without ever touching the ground? Maybe not anymore, but Treecycler is aiming to do something about it by using technology to support reforestation efforts and create a huge impact!
Treecycler is a new social enterprise that combines corporate cause-marketing, social networking and social gaming to plant trees in the U.S. and around the world. Individuals interested in contributing to Treecycler’s reforestation efforts have a number of ways to do so. Facebook users that “like” the Treecycler page receive a free code to plant to a tree (while supplies last). The Facebook game, “Forest Find” is a find-the-difference photo comparison game that also generates codes that can be used to plant trees. Finally, look for codes on mail and packaging used by brands that have teamed up with Treecycler to sponsor tree plantings.
The really fun part of the Treecycler experience is choosing where to plant your trees! With codes in-hand, visit the Treecycler website to redeem them. An interactive map shows all of the locations where reforestation projects are happening. Sites range from Haiti to Uganda, and from rural Pennsylvania, where the 9/11 United 93 Memorial is, to Kentucky, where Treecycler is fighting deforestation caused by coal mining in Appalachia.
This video shows a recent tree planting in Kentucky in honor of Arbor Day (April 27, 2012).
The Treecycler website asks visitors to, “Imagine if every piece of mail you receive or product you purchase could help protect and sustain the planet.” Treecycler works with corporate partners to help support the non-profit and state forestry organizations in need of funding. Visit the Treecycler Projects page and start planting today!
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Interested in other ways technology is used to combat deforestation? Check out this blog article on Guayaki Yerba Mate’s Impact Report, which showcases the company’s efforts to preserve the habitats and cultures of the areas of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay that supply their mate.
Singlebrook’s T4C campaign spotlights entrepreneurs and organizations that are using technology in unique ways to scale their ideas and create a massive impact. We are also creating our own high impact T4C projects. Check them out at: singlebrook.com/t4c. Share your stories of T4C or other inspirational resources and tips on Twitter (@Singlebrook) using #SBT4C and on the T4C Facebook group, or contact us to be spotlighted in an upcoming feature interview or blog article!