In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, the Ministry of Environment in Egypt announced the successful cultivation of 500,000 trees in rural villages as part of the ongoing 100 Million Trees initiative. This accomplishment brings the total number of trees planted under the initiative to 1.3 million, with the ambitious project set to conclude by 2030.
Diverse locations have witnessed the positive impact of the initiative, including the planting of 100,000 trees in educational institutions and 4,400 trees in Cairo’s Shaq Al Thoban industrial zone. Additionally, 6,500 trees were planted along the Suez Road, while both Hurghada International Airport and Sharm El Sheikh International Airport welcomed 3,500 trees each.
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The Ministry of Local Development reported in April that 7.2 million trees, out of the targeted 7.7 million for FY2022/2023, had been successfully planted under the “100 Million Trees” initiative. This nationwide effort, spanning seven years, involves contributions from various ministries, with the Ministry of Local Development spearheading the cultivation of 80 million trees. The remaining trees will be grown through collaborative efforts by the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Housing.
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The expansive project envisions the cultivation of 100 million trees across 9,900 locations, covering a total area of 6,600 feddans. These areas, dispersed nationwide, will evolve into forests and parks irrigated by treated wastewater.
The statement released by the ministry disclosed the diverse species of trees that have been cultivated, ranging from camphor, casuarina, and conocarps to orange, guava, olive, bologna, white poplar, mahogany, lemon, and pomegranate, among others. This broad array of trees underscores the comprehensive approach taken to enhance Egypt’s greenery and foster sustainable ecosystems.