Although Molai has largely had a solitary, independent-minded approach to his work, there are others around the world with missions not unlike his. Although they come from vastly different nationalities and backgrounds, and employ different methods and strategies, these individuals are united in their goal to revitalize local ecological systems through sustainable reforestation. In the section, you can find out more about these remarkable individuals!
David Milarch
David Milarch is on an ongoing mission to preserve the genetics of the redwood forests in Northern California through a programme called “assisted migration” by planting the saplings of old-growth redwood trees in more suitable environments. This preserves the genetics of old-growth forests and allows redwood forests to re-establish. Like Molai, his emotional affinity and reverence for the trees he aims to conserve is palpable in the way he talks about them.
Children enlisted in the planting of redwood saplings; It’s never too early to cultivate environmental attitudes!
David Bamberger
David Bamberger, a Texan fried chicken tycoon, put his fortunes to use by buying overgrazed land, and restoring them into lush, ecologically-balanced landscapes by planting hundreds of trees. He has also organized other landowners to reintroduce the Texas Snowbell, a highly endangered tree species native to Texas. As with the Molai forest, native animals such as wild turkey, bobcats and even Mexican free-tailed bats have repopulated the land in a vote of confidence for the environment Bamberger created!
Reynaldo Ochoa
Reynaldo Ochoa, who was formerly a “slash-and-burn” farmer in Peru, dedicated his life to planting trees and educating fellow farmers on sustainable agricultural practices after becoming increasingly concerned about the future of the forests. Ochoa has been especially successful in educating and galvanizing local communities to adopt sustainable gardening practices. To date, he has planted over 30,000 trees!
Antonio Vicente
At 84 years of age, Brazilian Antonio Vicente stands as the grandfather of forest men! In his childhood, Vicente noticed the water springs around him dry up as the rainforest was cut down to make way for cattle pastures. After saving up money in the city, he returned to buy the deforested land and began planting native trees and plants, bringing the waterfalls back to his land.
The positive influences these people have on their local ecologies and communities serve as an affirmation of the capability of individuals to make a difference, and show that Molai’s story is not merely one peculiar case of an obsessed environmentalist. Learning about what these gentlemen have achieved can certainly change one’s sense of control over environmental issues!