Search Results for “Blue” – One More Tree Foundation

Where does the soil in your garden come from – the story of soil from rock to fertile ground

bartoszbuczkowski — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:54:24 +0000

History lies beneath our feet

When we reach down and pick up a handful of soil from the garden, we are holding something that took thousands, and sometimes millions, of years to form. It is not simply “dirt”. It is a complex, multi-layered structure in which the history of climate, vegetation, animals and geological processes is recorded: everything that happened in this place long before any of us arrived. Soil is one of the most underappreciated natural resources on Earth, more complex than water, harder to restore than a forest, and absolutely essential to life as we know it.

Most of us treat soil as a backdrop. Something to walk on, to plant things in, and to fertilise from time to time. Yet one centimetre of fertile soil takes hundreds of years to form. Its loss, through erosion, paving over or agricultural degradation, is a process that is practically irreversible on a human timescale. Understanding where soil comes from and what creates it changes the way we look at it, and perhaps the way we treat it.

Everything begins with rock

At the foundation of every soil lies the parent rock. It might be granite, sandstone, limestone, shale or loess, depending on the geology of a given place. This rock is the starting point, but in itself it is not yet soil. For it to become something capable of sustaining life, it must pass through a long process of weathering: breaking down into ever finer particles under the influence of water, frost, temperature and chemistry.

Mechanical weathering is the effect of physical forces that break up rock without altering its chemical composition. Water seeps into cracks in the rock, freezes and expands, splitting the rock from within. Daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations cause minerals to alternately expand and contract, eventually leading to their disintegration. Wind carries grains of sand that abrade the rock surface like sandpaper. This is slow, unrelenting work by the elements, whose effects are measured in millennia.

Chemical weathering occurs in parallel. Rainwater, mildly acidified by carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, reacts with the mineral components of the rock, altering their structure and leaching out certain elements. Organic acids produced by plants and microorganisms accelerate this process. In this way, clay minerals and other compounds form from the parent rock, and these will later become the foundation of soil structure.

When life enters the picture

The mineral material alone, however finely broken down, is not yet soil in the ecological sense of the word. The pivotal moment comes when the first biological colonisers appear: organisms capable of living in an almost lifeless environment and beginning to transform it.

The pioneers are usually lichens and mosses. Lichens, being a symbiotic combination of fungi and algae, can establish themselves directly on bare rock, secreting acids that accelerate its chemical weathering. When a lichen dies, it leaves behind the first, microscopic layer of organic matter. On this, moss can take hold, retaining more water, creating a more humid environment and adding another portion of organic material when it dies. Layer by layer, over decades and centuries, primary soil builds up in this way.

In time, higher plants appear, and with them an entire soil ecosystem: bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms, millipedes, mites and dozens of other groups of organisms. Each participant processes organic matter, mineralises nutrients, creates soil structure and influences its properties. The earthworm, pulling leaves deep into the soil and excreting digested matter, is literally a builder of soil. A single earthworm processes several grams of soil per year, and the earthworm population in one hectare of meadow can weigh more than a herd of cattle grazing on the same area.

Humus – the heart of fertile soil

The key component of fertile soil is humus, also called organic matter. It is a dark, spongy substance formed by the decomposition of dead plant and animal material by microorganisms. Humus is not the same as compost: it is more thoroughly processed, more chemically stable and far more durable. It can persist in the soil for hundreds, even thousands, of years.

The importance of humus to soil is hard to overstate. First, it is a reservoir of nutrients: nitrogen compounds, phosphorus, potassium and trace elements that plants can draw on gradually, as needed. Second, it improves soil structure: it makes clay less compacted and more permeable, and helps sand retain water. Third, humus is one of the most important long-term stores of carbon. The soils of the world contain more carbon than the atmosphere and all terrestrial vegetation combined. The degradation of humus-rich soils releases this carbon back into the atmosphere, which is one of the underappreciated mechanisms driving climate change.

Building humus is a slow process requiring specific conditions: regular input of organic matter, adequate moisture, appropriate temperature and a rich biological community. Destroying it takes considerably less time. Intensive tillage, monoculture farming, overuse of synthetic fertilisers and removal of leaf litter: each of these practices accelerates the breakdown of humus and the degradation of soil.

Soil profiles – a vertical cross-section through history

If we were to cut through the soil vertically and examine the cross-section, we would see distinct layers, known as soil horizons. Each layer has a different colour, texture and composition, and together they form what is called a soil profile: a record unique to each place, encoding the history of the processes that occurred there.

The uppermost layer, just at or below the surface, is the humus horizon. It is the darkest, biologically richest and most fertile. It is precisely this layer that determines the productivity of the soil, and it is precisely this layer that is the thinnest and most vulnerable to degradation. Beneath it lies the eluviation horizon, where water carrying mineral components leaves characteristic traces. Deeper still lie the mineral accumulation horizons and, finally, the parent rock from which everything began.

Reading a soil profile is like reading an ice core or the growth rings of a tree. Each layer says something about the conditions that prevailed in the past. Geologists, soil scientists and archaeologists can extract from such a profile information about ancient climates, vegetation and even human activity going back thousands of years.

Polish soils – a record of glaciations and winds

Polish soils have their own history, deeply marked by the last glaciations. The glacier that covered much of the country several tens of thousands of years ago left behind specific materials: boulder clays, glaciofluvial sands and gravels. When the glacier retreated, vast, vegetation-free plains were exposed, across which the wind scattered fine loess dust. It settled in layers across the south of the country, forming the basis for some of the most fertile soils in Poland: the chernozems and loess alluvial soils of the Lublin Upland and Lesser Poland.

In the north of the country, sandy soils and podzols dominate: less fertile, more acidic, characteristic of dune areas and outwash plains. In river valleys, alluvial soils formed: young, regularly replenished by river floods, and the foundation of Polish riverside agriculture for millennia. In hollows where water accumulated and stagnated, peat and bog soils developed: stores of carbon and valuable habitats, today largely drained and degraded in Poland.

This diversity of soils is both a richness and a challenge. Different soil types require different agricultural and forestry practices, different tree and plant species, and different conservation strategies. A one-size-fits-all approach to such a varied resource is one of the mistakes whose consequences we feel most acutely in the context of Polish soil degradation.

Forest soil versus urban soil

Not all soil is equal, and the difference between the soil in an old forest and soil in a city is striking. Forest soil is a structure shaped by millions of years of evolution: rich in humus, full of biological life, aerated by roots and the tunnels of organisms, moist and permeable. The forest litter, a layer of leaves, twigs and dead wood on the surface, is the soil’s natural protection against erosion, desiccation and extreme temperatures.

Urban soil is often its opposite. Compacted by foot and vehicle traffic, stripped of litter, cut off from natural organic matter, and frequently contaminated with heavy metals and petroleum derivatives. Urban trees grow in such a substrate like pot plants in too small a pot: they can survive, but they do not have the conditions for full development. This is the source of the short lives of urban trees, their susceptibility to disease and the difficulty they have in taking root.

Restoring health to urban soil is one of the most difficult but most important tasks in the context of cities’ green infrastructure. It requires not only the addition of organic matter and a reduction in compaction, but a fundamental change in the design of urban space: one that gives soil and roots room and conditions to function. One More Tree Foundation takes this context into account when planning every planting event in urban spaces, selecting species and locations so that trees have a genuine chance of long-term growth, not just an impressive start.

Soil is not a renewable resource – at least not on our timescale

One centimetre of fertile soil forms, depending on conditions, in anywhere from one hundred to one thousand years. Meanwhile, intensive wind and water erosion, driven by deforestation and poor agricultural practices, can destroy that same layer within a single decade. According to FAO estimates, more than one third of the world’s soils are considered degraded, and the pace of degradation far exceeds the pace of natural regeneration.

This means that soil is a resource we treat as renewable, even though it is not, at least not on a human timescale. The protection of soil should be taken as seriously as the protection of water or air. Practices that degrade it, such as deforestation, excessive tillage, monoculture and paving over land, have consequences whose repair will take generations.

Trees are, in this context, the soil’s key allies. Roots maintain its structure and protect it against erosion. Leaves create litter that nourishes the microbiome. Dead wood and roots build channels for water and air. A forest is not merely a collection of trees: it is a machine for building and protecting soil, operating on principles that humanity is only beginning to fully understand.

A handful of soil, thousands of years

The next time we pick up a handful of soil from the garden, a forest or a nearby park, it is worth pausing for a moment to imagine what is hidden in that seemingly ordinary clump. Minerals from rock that weathered over centuries. Organic remains of plants and animals from dozens of generations. Billions of living organisms, most of them invisible to the naked eye. Traces of a climate that prevailed here thousands of years ago. And a particular arrangement of all these components that makes exactly what grows here grow here, and nothing else.

Soil may be the most underappreciated wonder of nature. It does not dazzle like the ocean, does not impress like mountains, does not move us like an ancient forest. But without it, none of those things would exist. It is the foundation on which all terrestrial life stands: patiently built by nature over millions of years, and asking of us only one thing, that we stop taking it for granted.

The Night That Stopped Being Dark: Light Pollution as a Silent Biodiversity Crisis

michalinadrozdz — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:32:14 +0000

Artificial light at night is one of those inventions that is hard to dispute. It makes it easier to move around, extends city activity, increases the sense of safety, and allows people to work and rest after dusk. The problem is that in recent decades we have started to shine light not only where it is needed, but also “just in case”: brighter, longer, and across wider areas. From an environmental perspective, this is a change comparable to modifying a local climate—except it concerns not temperature or humidity, but a basic biological piece of information: is it night, or is it day?

Light pollution (often referred to by the acronym ALAN – Artificial Light at Night) includes the brightening of the sky above cities, glare, unwanted light entering windows, and excessive illumination of spaces that no one is using at a given moment. For humans, this may be “only” discomfort or worse sleep. For many species, it is a signal that the world has stopped working according to a rhythm they have adapted to for thousands of years.

Night Ecology: Why Darkness Is a Resource

For a long time, we treated night as an empty break between daytime activities. Meanwhile, for nature, night is a fully-fledged environment. Many animals live nocturnally: insects, amphibians, numerous mammals, and also some migratory birds. Darkness regulates behaviors related to foraging, reproduction, rest, and migration. If night becomes “brightened,” organisms lose their reference point.

In practice, ALAN acts like an environmental pressure. It creates zones that some species avoid, while others exploit. This changes the composition of local communities: some populations decline, others increase. Predator–prey relationships change, activity timing shifts, and even reproductive success can be affected. This is especially important because in nature many processes are synchronized—and light is one of the main “clocks.”

Nocturnal Insects: When a Streetlamp Becomes a Trap

The most familiar image is a moth circling a lamp. This is not just coincidence. Many insects use natural sky light for orientation. Strong, point-like light sources disrupt this mechanism: insects lose direction, circle, become exhausted, or become easy prey. At the scale of a single lamp it may look trivial, but at the scale of a city it means hundreds of thousands of such “traps” operating every night.

The consequences spill across the entire ecosystem. Insects are the foundation of many food webs. If their numbers drop, insect-eating species suffer: bats, birds feeding chicks, and even some small mammals. Moreover, some pollinators operate at night—and although daytime pollinators get the most attention, nighttime plant–insect interactions are important for maintaining biological diversity.

Field studies show that street lighting can reduce the abundance of caterpillars and other insect life stages near lamps, which translates into food availability during crucial parts of the season. This is an example of an effect that does not scream in headlines, but steadily weakens local networks of dependencies.

Migratory Birds: Night Light That Shortens Life’s Journey

For many birds, night is migration time. It is an energy and safety strategy: cooler air, fewer predators, different weather conditions. The problem is that strong nighttime light can disorient birds, especially during cloud cover and fog, when the urban glow creates a bright “dome” over the city. Disoriented birds circle, lose energy, and increase the risk of collisions with buildings—especially glass-covered ones.

In practice, this means that lighting infrastructure—combined with architecture—can become a mortality factor. In many countries, programs exist to reduce light emissions during migration periods, especially in city centers and around tall buildings. This does not require eliminating lighting, only management: dimming, switching off parts of illumination, and using solutions that minimize emission into the sky.

Plants and Trees: A Night That Extends the Day

Light pollution also affects plants. Trees and shrubs respond to day and night length, and photoperiod influences their phenology: flowering time, entering dormancy, leaf drop. If a plant “sees” a brightened night, it may maintain physiological activity longer, enter dormancy later, and be more exposed to frost damage. In cities, situations are observed where trees near streetlights keep leaves longer, and the seasonal cycle becomes less coherent.

This is not only an aesthetic issue. A phenology shift can cause timing mismatches between plants and organisms that depend on them. If a plant flowers earlier or longer, while the pollinator keeps an “old” rhythm—reproductive success declines. An ecosystem works well when elements are synchronized. ALAN loosens that synchronization.

LED: Progress That Requires Standards

In recent years, LED lighting has become widespread. This is good news from an energy-efficiency perspective, but not always from a night-ecology perspective. Cheap light tempts us to use more: brighter, longer, on more streets and squares. In addition, many LEDs have a significant blue-light component, which strongly affects circadian clocks biologically for many organisms (including humans). This does not mean LEDs are “bad”—it means we need design criteria, not only price criteria.

Key parameters are: directionality (light on the sidewalk, not into the sky), intensity (no excess, no glare), operating time (dimming in the middle of the night), and spectrum (warmer colors where possible). Well-designed lighting can simultaneously improve human comfort and reduce pressure on nature.

What Can Be Done Without a Revolution: Simple Rules to Reduce ALAN

The biggest advantage of tackling light pollution is that many solutions can be implemented quickly. They do not require major social campaigns or years of investment. They require awareness and decisions on the part of space managers.

Use full cut-off fixtures that do not emit light upward and minimize skyglow.
Set intensity according to the real function of the place, avoiding “over-lighting” that often increases glare.
Implement dimming after hours of the lowest traffic, and motion sensors in low-activity zones.
Limit decorative illuminations in the middle of the night and during sensitive periods (e.g., migrations).
Avoid lighting ecological corridors: riverbanks, forest edges, and green zones that serve as animal movement routes.

This approach is not “anti-human.” On the contrary: reducing glare and better directing light can improve safety and comfort. In many places, the problem is not lack of light, but its quality.

Light Pollution and Pro-Environmental Actions: A Missing Element in Biodiversity Thinking

In environmental projects, we often focus on “adding good”: planting trees, creating meadows, protecting habitats. This is important, but sometimes just as important is “removing pressure.” If we want to support biodiversity, we must consider 24-hour conditions. A tree grows in a landscape where it is not only soil and water that matter, but also the lighting regime. Lighting can reduce insect presence, change bat behavior, and affect plant phenology. As a result, part of the benefits of greening may be weaker than we assume.

That is why the topic of night ecology complements the mission of organizations that operate in the field, engage people in practical projects, and build awareness that ecology is real decisions—not only declarations. If you are looking for examples of actions combining tree planting with corporate team engagement, it is worth seeing One More Tree’s employee volunteering initiatives

Summary: Darkness as a Resource Worth Protecting

Light pollution is a quiet problem because it seems harmless and “modern.” But in ecosystems, night is not emptiness. It is an environment that regulates life—from insects, through birds, to trees. When we brighten the night, we change the rules of the biological game.

The good news is that this is one of those areas where results can be achieved quickly: better fixtures, sensible intensity, dimming, and limiting emissions into the sky. In practice, that means protecting nature without losing quality of life. Sometimes, to do something important for the environment, you do not need to build anything or plant anything. Sometimes it is enough to stop shining light where nature needs darkness.

Recycling and Waste Segregation in the Workplace. What Must Employers Provide and What Rights Do Employees Have?

bartoszbuczkowski — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Why does waste segregation in the workplace matter?

Workplaces generate enormous amounts of waste, often comparable to that produced in households. Paper, packaging, food waste, electronic equipment or used office materials are part of everyday reality in offices, production facilities and institutions. If these are not properly segregated, they end up in mixed waste, which significantly limits the possibility of recycling.

Waste segregation in the workplace is not only a matter of goodwill or an ecological attitude. In Poland and throughout the European Union, it is an obligation resulting from legal regulations, and responsibility for its implementation lies primarily with the employer.

How did waste segregation regulations begin in the EU and in Poland?

The first European regulations concerning waste management appeared as early as the 1970s, but a key moment was the Waste Framework Directive of 2008, which introduced the waste hierarchy: prevention, reuse, recycling, recovery and only at the very end disposal.

In Poland, a breakthrough came with the Waste Act of 2012, followed by the introduction of universal selective waste collection. Since 2021, a uniform waste segregation system into five fractions has also been in force, applying not only to households but also to companies and institutions.

The five-fraction division system

The uniform selective waste collection system is based on division into five basic fractions. This system aims to standardise segregation rules and facilitate proper waste management for both residents and companies. Importantly, it also applies to workplaces, regardless of company size or type of activity.

The first fraction is paper, collected in blue containers. It includes office paper, notebooks, newspapers, catalogues, envelopes without plastic windows and cardboard packaging. In the workplace, these are primarily office wastes, which is why proper segregation is particularly important. Contaminated, greasy paper and paper towels should not be disposed of in this fraction.

The second fraction consists of metals and plastics, marked with yellow containers. This includes plastic packaging, PET bottles, films, beverage cartons, aluminium and steel cans, as well as small metal elements. In the workplace, these are, for example, packaging from food, drinks or cleaning products. It is important that waste is emptied of its contents, although it does not need to be thoroughly washed.

The third fraction is glass, collected in green containers. This includes bottles and jars from beverages and food products. Ceramics, porcelain, tableware glass, mirrors and light bulbs should not be disposed of as glass, as they require separate disposal methods. In companies, glass appears mainly in kitchens and social areas.

The fourth fraction is bio-waste, marked with brown containers. This includes food leftovers, vegetable and fruit peelings, coffee grounds, tea leaves and other organic waste. In the workplace, bio-waste is generated mainly in kitchens and canteens. Proper segregation is crucial, as it allows composting and reduces the amount of mixed waste.

The last fraction is mixed waste, disposed of in black containers. Only waste that cannot be assigned to any of the other fractions should be placed here. Proper functioning of the segregation system means that as little material as possible ends up in mixed waste, rather than treating it as the default bin.

What obligations does an employer have regarding segregation?

According to Polish and EU regulations, the employer, as a waste producer, is obliged to ensure conditions that enable proper waste segregation. This means not only formal compliance with requirements, but also creating real opportunities for employees.

The employer should:

provide separate containers for individual waste fractions (paper, metals and plastics, glass, bio-waste, mixed waste),
ensure clear labelling of containers in accordance with applicable colours and segregation rules,
organise waste collection by an authorised company,
include specific waste types such as electronic waste, batteries, toners or fluorescent lamps in the system,
provide employees with basic information or instructions regarding segregation.

Lack of appropriate containers or incorrect labelling may be considered a failure to fulfil statutory obligations.

Waste segregation at work and legal responsibility

Under Polish law, the employer is responsible for the way waste is managed within the company. In the event of inspections by authorities such as the Environmental Protection Inspectorate or local government units responsible for waste management, it is the company, not an individual employee, that is held accountable for irregularities.

Violations of regulations may result in:

administrative penalties,
fines,
the obligation to implement corrective actions,

In extreme cases, financial sanctions provided for in the Waste Act.

Checklist. Is waste segregation carried out properly in your workplace?

The list below allows employees to independently check whether basic requirements are met:

separate bins for different waste fractions are available in the workplace,
containers are clearly labelled and described,
it is known where to dispose of problematic waste (batteries, electronic waste, toners),
containers are emptied regularly,
employees have received any information or instructions regarding segregation,
segregation is possible not only in the kitchen, but also in office or production spaces.

If most of these requirements are not met, there is a high probability that obligations resulting from legal regulations are not fully implemented.

What can an employee do if segregation does not work?

An employee does not bear legal responsibility for the segregation system, but has the right to point out irregularities. The best first step is to report the problem directly to a supervisor, the administration department or health and safety, preferably in a factual and specific form.

If the problem is not resolved, the employee may:

propose simple improvements, such as labelling bins or adding missing containers,
contact a trade union or employee representative,
as a last resort, report irregularities to appropriate inspection authorities, such as the Environmental Protection Inspectorate.

It is worth remembering that these actions are not reporting on someone, but enforcing the law designed to protect the environment and public health.

Why segregation at work is more than just an obligation

A well-organised waste segregation system in the workplace affects not only the environment, but also organisational culture. It shows that the company treats environmental responsibility seriously and does not limit it to marketing declarations.

Waste segregation at work is a real action that reduces the amount of mixed waste, increases recycling rates and builds environmental awareness among employees. It is also one of the simplest steps from which more sustainable organisational practices can begin.

One More Tree Foundation regularly cooperates with companies and organisations, organising webinars and training sessions on recycling and ecology. In addition, we carry out clean-up actions of green areas throughout Poland, enabling volunteers and employees to clean up waste that would certainly not end up being recycled.

Water in the city: why “wet greenery” is more important today than more plantings

michalinadrozdz — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 20:41:07 +0000

More and more often, cities are experiencing two extremes at once: intense downpours that turn streets into streams, and long rainless periods when plants weaken and the soil cracks. In response, we usually talk about planting trees, because trees are a visible symbol of change. The thing is, without water even the best plantings become a short-lived effect.

That is why the key question today is not only “how many trees,” but: can the city retain water, clean it, and give it back to greenery when it is needed most. This is exactly what the “wet greenery” approach describes – designing greenery and retention as one coherent system.

Why does water “disappear” in a few minutes in the city

In an urban environment, water has a harder time than in a natural landscape. Sealed surfaces – asphalt, paving blocks, concrete – cut it off from the soil. Rain that used to soak in and feed plants now quickly runs into the sewer system. The effect is paradoxical: after an intense rainfall the risk of local flooding increases, and a few days later the soil and greenery suffer because there is nothing for evaporation and transpiration to “work with.”

As a result, trees begin to function like organisms in energy-saving mode: they limit transpiration, close their stomata, grow more slowly, and tolerate heat stress worse. Residents feel this as hotter streets, more stifling nights, and less comfort in public space – even when, “on paper,” the city does not lack greenery.

What is “wet greenery” and why does it work better than plantings alone

“Wet greenery” means a way of thinking in which greenery and retention are one system. It is not only about large reservoirs or expensive hydrotechnical investments, but about ensuring that rain – especially intense rain – does not disappear from the city in a few minutes. If water is to stay, it needs space in the ground and sensibly guided runoff.

In practice, wet greenery means designing greenery so that it takes in water from nearby surfaces (sidewalks, streets, roofs), filters it through soil and substrate layers, stores moisture in the root zone, and then releases water gradually to plants and the atmosphere. Such a system works like a natural sponge: it softens rainfall peaks, reduces the load on the sewer system, and creates a moisture buffer for times of drought.

Soil: the foundation without which retention does not work

The most underestimated element here is soil. Without it, retention becomes decoration rather than a solution. Compacted, degraded soil with a low content of organic matter will not accept water even if there is a nice flower bed nearby. Water will run off the surface, and plants will still require watering.

That is why real improvement starts with the quality of the substrate: its structure, permeability, ability to store moisture, and biological life. If the soil is “dead,” the city can invest in saplings, but it will pay for watering and replacements. If the soil works, plants cope better on their own and maintenance costs drop in the following seasons.

At One More Tree we increasingly emphasize that planting is only the beginning, not the end of change. A tree may be planted correctly, but if it has no access to water and stable soil conditions, the effect can be short-lived. That is why, alongside the plantings themselves, the “invisible” elements are just as important: substrate quality, space for roots, and retention solutions that make sure rain does not disappear from the city in a few minutes. This is exactly where wet greenery stops being a slogan and becomes a practical condition for durability.

From “drain as fast as possible” to “keep it where it fell”

For years the dominant model was: collect water from streets and get it into the sewer system as quickly as possible. With increasingly frequent downpours, this approach has limitations—drainage systems are overloaded, and the city loses a resource that could stabilize the microclimate.

That is why more and more cities are moving toward the logic of “keep water where it fell.” The design of streets, squares, and courtyards is changing. Greenery stops being a thin strip of lawn and becomes an element of infrastructure with a specific task: to cool, irrigate, filter, and stabilize.

What wet greenery looks like in practice

The best results do not come from one “big project,” but from a set of dispersed elements that together capture water: rain gardens and retention basins, bioretention strips (bioswales) along roads and parking lots, de-sealing surfaces and permeable pavements where possible, trees planted in conditions that provide real substrate volume and water inflow, as well as green roofs and “blue-green” solutions that flatten runoff from buildings.

What matters is that well-designed wet greenery is “visible” not only during a downpour. It improves the microclimate every day: it increases local humidity, limits the heating of surfaces, and allows trees to maintain activity during the most difficult weeks of summer.

Why a systemic approach makes the biggest difference

Wet greenery makes the most sense when it is implemented consistently, not as a one-off fix. If in one place you create space for water, but the surrounding area remains fully sealed, the effect will be limited.

The biggest difference is made by a systemic approach: planning greenery where water naturally flows; limiting sealed surfaces; designing substrate that will accept rainfall and keep it in the soil profile; and maintenance that allows plants to take root and enter a stable seasonal rhythm. This approach is also more honest in communication: instead of promising an immediate change after one planting event, it shows a long-term improvement in the city’s resilience.

The role of companies and communities: partnerships that sustain the effect

Retention in public space often requires partnerships. Companies that want to support ecology in a real way can think more broadly than just planting. Supporting projects that combine plantings with improved substrate and retention brings a more durable effect and translates better into residents’ quality of life.

At One More Tree we also see that partnerships make the most sense when they include not only a one-time action, but the whole logic of “maintain the effect.” Supporting projects that combine plantings with retention and improved habitat conditions is more resilient to the realities of the city: downpours, droughts, heat, and rapid soil drying. This direction is also easier to communicate honestly, because instead of promising immediate change after one planting, it shows a real system: water stays on site, greenery has something to draw on, and residents feel the difference in comfort day to day.

Water as a resource, not a problem to remove

If we want urban plantings to stop being a seasonal event and become a lasting change, we must treat water as a resource, not a problem to remove. Trees do not only need a place in the ground. They need conditions that allow them to live in the city for years: healthy soil, space for roots, and water that does not escape into the sewer at the moment when it is needed most. Then greenery begins to work for real – for the climate and for people.

Blue Mandarin Apartments

michalinadrozdz — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 13:15:16 +0000

Planting 2,000 Tulip Bulbs with Students in Ruda Śląska on 5 November 2025

oliwia — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:51:43 +0000

On 5 November 2025, the area in front of School Complex No. 2 in Ruda Śląska was transformed into a vibrant space for shared action. As part of the Green Pulse of Silesia project, together with Stellantis and local students, we planted around 2,000 tulip bulbs, creating a future flower meadow covering approximately 500 m².

For now, it may look modest – but beneath the surface, life is already beginning to grow.

Learning That Grows Together with Plants

There were no classrooms, notebooks or textbooks that day – instead, there was soil, small shovels and conversations about how plants influence the climate, purify the air, support insects and make cities more pleasant places to live. It was education in practice, at its very best.

Tulips in the November Sun

The weather surprised everyone. Sunshine, blue skies and a gentle breeze made November forget that it was November. The atmosphere felt as if spring had arrived early.

The engagement of the students was so great that it almost felt as though the tulips were ready to sprout even before they were planted in the ground.

Thank You!

We would like to thank the entire community of School Complex No. 2 for their involvement, openness and wonderful atmosphere. Special thanks also go to Stellantis — for their support and for believing that collective action truly has the power to transform the spaces we live in.

Now we wait for spring – and for the results of our shared work.

Planting 70 Trees with Blue Mandarin in Gdańsk

michalinadrozdz — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:53:08 +0000

On 22 October 2025, a tree-planting event took place in Gdańsk, carried out by One More Tree Foundation in cooperation with the company Blue Mandarin. As part of the action, 70 trees were planted, and 5 volunteers took part in field activities.
This is another example of how joint, practical actions can truly strengthen local greenery and support biodiversity in urban and suburban spaces.
Events of this type are something more than a one-off initiative. Each planted tree, in the long term, works for the benefit of the surroundings: it improves the microclimate, supports water retention, creates habitats and corridors for many organisms, and affects the quality of life of residents.

Why do such events matter?

Planting trees is an activity that combines the environmental dimension with building social responsibility. Working together in the field allows participants to see the immediate effect of the actions, but also to better understand that “green change” is a process—requiring planning, proper selection of the location, consistent care, and attention to the durability of the plantings. Initiatives of this kind also foster team integration and strengthen a sense of agency: participants do not only “talk about ecology”, but truly co-create it.

Course of the action in Gdańsk

During the event, the volunteers – five people – carried out the plantings in accordance with good practice principles: from preparing the sites, through planting, to basic protection measures and tidying up the area after the work was completed. Planting 70 trees is a measurable result that will remain in the space for years—provided proper care is given during the plant adaptation stage, especially in the first seasons after planting.

Thank you for the cooperation

We thank Blue Mandarin for cooperation in carrying out the event, and the volunteers for their time, energy, and commitment. Each such action shows that consistent, well-organized efforts—even on a smaller scale—add up to real, long-term change in the local landscape.
If your organization or institution wants to carry out similar activities in your area, One More Tree Foundation supports the organization of events and helps guide you through the process from planning to on-site implementation.

Mercedes‑Benz Financial Services and One More Tree Bring Greenery to Warsaw – Periwinkle Planting at Pole Mokotowskie

Katarzyna — Sun, 11 May 2025 08:39:24 +0000

On May 8, 2025, an ecological groundcover planting event was held at Pole Mokotowskie in Warsaw, organized by the One More Tree Foundation for Mercedes Benz Leasing. The event brought together 18 participants who planted periwinkle, creating a green space in the heart of the city.

Periwinkle – A Small Plant with Big Benefits

Periwinkle (Vinca) is a groundcover plant that enjoys great popularity in gardens and urban areas. In Poland, the most common variety is the lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor), known for its delicate blue or purple flowers. It is highly resistant to harsh weather conditions and pollution, making it an ideal choice for urban spaces.

Benefits of Planting Periwinkle:

Soil Protection – Periwinkle forms a dense, green carpet that effectively protects the soil from erosion, prevents it from drying out, and inhibits weed growth. This makes it a great solution for areas requiring soil stabilization.
Low Maintenance – Periwinkle is easy to care for. It thrives in shade, as well as in dry and nutrient-poor areas, making it perfectly suited for city landscapes.
Supporting Biodiversity – Although it’s a low-growing plant, periwinkle supports local wildlife. Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects essential to ecological balance.
Aesthetic Value – Periwinkle is also decorative. Its small blue and purple flowers that bloom in early spring add color and freshness to green spaces, enhancing the beauty of urban gardens and parks.

The Role of Periwinkle in Urban Areas

In city spaces like Pole Mokotowskie, groundcover plants such as periwinkle play a crucial role. Their fast growth, resistance to weather changes and pollution make them an excellent choice for beautifying public areas. These plants also improve air quality and support biodiversity by attracting beneficial insects. Moreover, periwinkle is important in combating climate change by retaining soil moisture and helping manage rainwater, thus reducing the urban heat island effect.

A Green Space in the Heart of the City

The periwinkle planting event at Pole Mokotowskie is a great example of how groundcover plants can enhance the aesthetics and functionality of urban spaces. Thanks to this initiative, one of Warsaw’s most iconic locations gained a new green area that will benefit residents for years to come. Groundcover plants like periwinkle are an essential element in creating environmentally friendly cities, where greenery is not just decoration but also a tool for improving quality of life.

One More Tree Foundation – Caring for the Future

For years, the One More Tree Foundation has been committed to environmental protection and ecological education. The organization regularly conducts events aimed at improving the quality of public spaces, increasing biodiversity, and building environmental awareness. Thanks to its collaboration with Mercedes Benz Leasing, this initiative was successfully carried out, enriching Warsaw with a new, green space.

Sowing a Flower Meadow and Planting Flower Bulbs with GSK in Suchy Las – April 28, 2025

oliwia — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:22:00 +0000

On April 28, 2025, the town of Suchy Las blossomed not only with the colors of spring, but above all thanks to a green initiative organized in cooperation with GSK. On that day, the company’s employees took part in environmental activities, combining the creation of a flower meadow with a local clean-up campaign. It was not only a practical ecological effort but also a great example of corporate engagement in building a better, more sustainable world.

Flowers for Pollinators – Tiny Seeds, Big Change

The main focus of the event was the creation of a flower meadow — a space that will soon become a natural home and feeding ground for bees, butterflies, bumblebees, and other pollinators. These often-overlooked insects play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance and food production.

During the event, volunteers planted an impressive number of flowers:

400 gladiolus bulbs,
900 freesia bulbs,
800 hyacinth bulbs.

In addition, seeds of selected wildflowers were sown, including moldavian balm, blue tansy, cornflower, white mustard, and calendula.

These species were carefully selected for their ability to attract pollinators and support local biodiversity. The newly created meadow will become a vibrant, colorful space that not only pleases the eye but also serves a vital ecological function.

Mini Clean-Up – A Small Gesture, a Big Impact

Alongside the planting activities, volunteers also took part in cleaning the area surrounding the newly established meadow. During the mini clean-up, they collected as many as 6 bags of waste — mainly plastic, glass, and metal.

Such actions prove that caring for the environment doesn’t always require grand initiatives — every effort counts. Cleaner green areas mean not only greater comfort for residents but also a safer habitat for wildlife, birds, and insects.

GSK – A Company Committed to the Environment

The initiative in Suchy Las is another example of GSK’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility. For many years, GSK has been implementing a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy that includes not only ecological projects but also education and employee engagement.

By involving its volunteers in meadow creation, tree planting, and green space clean-ups, GSK actively contributes to environmental improvement while fostering a strong internal culture of responsibility and collaboration. These events are not only practical actions but also opportunities for team integration, knowledge-sharing, and collective efforts for a healthier planet.

Thank You for Your Commitment!

A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers who devoted their time and energy to make Suchy Las an even more beautiful and nature-friendly place. Thanks to your efforts, a space was created that will serve the local community and pollinators for years to come, promoting biodiversity and reminding us that every change starts with action.

Let this event inspire further initiatives — in companies and local communities alike. Flower meadows, trees, clean streets, and ecological education are investments that always pay off — for people, for nature, and for the future.

The Health Benefits of Trees and Forests

Katarzyna — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 11:55:24 +0000

In the face of rapid urbanisation and climate change, the role of trees and forests is becoming increasingly crucial not only for the environment, but also for human health. Trees and forests perform many functions that significantly affect our physical and mental health. In cities around the world, green spaces are often seen as a luxury, but their value goes far beyond aesthetics. They are an indispensable part of a healthy urban ecosystem and have a direct impact on residents’ quality of life.

In an era of intense urbanisation, with more and more people living in densely populated urban areas, contact with nature is becoming increasingly limited. Overloaded schedules, air pollution, noise pollution and the stress of an urban lifestyle all have a negative impact on our health. For this reason, understanding and promoting the benefits of trees and forests is extremely important.

Trees and forests not only contribute to air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, but also play a key role in temperature regulation, noise reduction and biodiversity conservation. In addition, scientific research increasingly confirms that contact with nature has many health benefits that can support our wellbeing and quality of life.

In this article, we will take a closer look at what specific health benefits trees and forests provide. We will discuss how trees filter the air, how contact with nature affects our psyche and what substances secreted by trees can support our immune system. We will also learn why regular exposure to green spaces can improve the quality of our sleep, reduce the risk of chronic disease and support visual and cognitive health.

Understanding these benefits is key to promoting green activities and urban sustainability. Caring for green spaces and tree planting initiatives can contribute to better public health and quality of life for residents.

Clean Air

One of the most important and direct ways in which trees affect our health is by improving air quality. Trees act as natural filters, capturing pollutants such as pollen, fumes and chemicals from the air. This process is mainly done through the leaves of the trees, which absorb harmful substances from the air and trap them on their surface.

Studies show that urban woodland can significantly reduce air pollution levels. In London, for example, urban trees remove around 2,241 tonnes of pollutants from the air each year, helping to improve the health of residents. Better air quality translates into a lower risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory infections.

In cities, where air pollution is a serious problem, tree planting is becoming an effective and cost-efficient solution in the fight for cleaner air. Examples of such initiatives can be found around the world – from tree planting campaigns in Beijing to counter smog, to local reforestation projects in American cities such as New York and Los Angeles.

Reducing Stress and Improving Mental Health

Being among trees and forests has an extremely positive effect on mental health. Contact with nature has a calming effect, reducing stress levels and improving wellbeing. In an era of widespread stress associated with city life, contact with nature becomes an invaluable source of relief.

Scientific research confirms that being among trees and green spaces can lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. For example, a study by the University of Illinois found that people who regularly spend time in city parks have significantly lower stress levels than those who spend time in the concrete jungle of the city.

The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, known as forest bathing, has become a popular therapeutic method to aid mental health. It involves spending time in the forest, engaging all the senses and immersing oneself in the natural surroundings. Studies have shown that forest bathing can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and improve overall wellbeing. In addition, regular time in nature can lead to better concentration, increased creativity and improved mood.

Strengthening the Immune System

Being among trees and forests not only improves mental health, but also strengthens the immune system. Trees secrete phytoncides – chemicals that protect them from bacteria, fungi and insects. Phytoncides also have a beneficial effect on humans, strengthening our immune system.

A study in Japan found that people in the forest had higher levels of NK cells (natural killers), which play a key role in the body’s defence against viruses and cancer cells. The increase in NK cells persisted for several days after a walk in the forest, suggesting that regular exposure to nature can lead to a long-term strengthening of the immune system.

In addition, contact with nature can increase levels of vitamin D, a deficiency of which is common, especially in countries with colder climates. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and the immune system, and its production in the body is increased by exposure to natural sunlight, which is abundant in forested areas.

Physical activity and recreation

Green spaces such as parks and forests encourage physical activity, which is another important health aspect. Walking, running, cycling or outdoor yoga are forms of activity that can easily be done in wooded spaces.

Outdoor physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improved heart and lung capacity, increased muscle strength, weight reduction and improved overall fitness. Regular exercise in a natural setting can also reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Research shows that people who have easy access to green spaces are more likely to engage in physical activity and lead healthier lifestyles. For example, a study in the UK found that residents in areas with more green space showed higher levels of physical activity and had better health outcomes than those living in less green areas.

Improving the quality of sleep

Sleep quality is a key element of our health and wellbeing. Trees and forests can make a significant contribution to improving our sleep by creating a calm and clean environment. Research shows that contact with nature can help regulate the diurnal rhythm and promote deeper, more restorative sleep.

One of the mechanisms by which nature influences sleep is by reducing stress levels. As already mentioned, being surrounded by trees reduces cortisol levels, which translates into a calmer mind and easier sleep. People who spend time outdoors, especially in forests, often report better sleep quality and fewer problems with insomnia.

In addition, forests and wooded areas have lower noise levels compared to urban environments. The quiet, natural setting promotes relaxation and can prevent noise-induced sleep disturbances. In cities, where noise is an unavoidable problem, access to green spaces can provide an oasis of calm, allowing for better rest.

Reducing the risk of chronic diseases

Being among trees and forests can also reduce the risk of many chronic diseases. Studies have shown that people who regularly spend time in nature have a lower risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. The physical activity that green spaces promote is one of the key factors in the prevention of these diseases.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Being in nature and exercising regularly outdoors can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel function. A study in Finland found that people who live near forests have a lower risk of heart disease compared to those who live in more urbanised areas.

Similarly, contact with nature can help manage blood sugar levels and prevent type 2 diabetes. Physical activity outdoors, especially in the form of walking or running, improves insulin sensitivity and helps control blood glucose levels.

Increasing creativity and improving concentration

Being in nature, including forests, can increase creativity and improve concentration. Studies have shown that people who spend time in nature often experience ‘cognitive renewal’, leading to better focus and higher mental performance. For example, a study by Stanford University found that students who walked in a park had better scores on creativity and concentration tests than those who walked on city streets.

Strengthening social relations

Green spaces are also conducive to strengthening social relationships. Meeting outdoors, taking walks and picnics together can bring people together, improving mental and emotional health. Strong social relationships are key to overall wellbeing and can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Reducing Cancer Risk

Some studies suggest that contact with nature may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. For example, being in a forest can increase levels of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a key role in fighting cancer cells. Research in Japan has shown that people who regularly spend time in the forest have higher levels of NK cell activity, which may help to reduce cancer risk.

Improving Cognitive Health in Senior Citizens

Being surrounded by green space has a particularly beneficial effect on the cognitive health of older people. Studies show that seniors living near green spaces have better cognitive function, including memory and thinking skills. Contact with nature may also reduce the risk of developing dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Supporting Visual Health

Looking at computer screens and other digital devices for long periods of time can lead to eye problems such as eye fatigue and myopia. Being outdoors and looking at natural landscapes can help alleviate these problems. Research suggests that children who spend more time outdoors have a lower risk of developing myopia.

Improving Postnatal Self-Care

Research suggests that contact with nature can support women’s mental health after childbirth. Being in parks and forests can help reduce symptoms of postnatal depression and improve the overall wellbeing of young mothers. Outdoor physical activity may also speed up recovery from pregnancy.

Trees and forests play a key role in improving our health, offering benefits that go far beyond aesthetic beauty and environmental protection. Clean air, stress reduction, boosting the immune system, promoting physical activity, improving sleep quality and reducing the risk of chronic diseases are just some of the many benefits that contact with nature brings.

In an age of increasing urbanisation and fast-paced lifestyles, appreciating and protecting our green spaces becomes vital. Encouraging tree planting and caring for forests is an investment in public health and the future of our planet. Therefore, it is worth supporting environmentally friendly initiatives and ensuring that our cities and surroundings are as green as possible.