#GenerationRestoration
On June 5th, I had the honor of participating in the “Generation Restoration” event hosted by Earthed, with the involvement of the United Nations. This event was a significant gathering of like-minded individuals dedicated to the cause of ecosystem restoration. It provided an excellent platform to share our experiences and learn from each other’s efforts in nurturing and restoring the natural world. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this important discussion and would like to share my reflections and insights from this enriching experience.
During the event, I had the privilege of discussing the vital role of community in ecosystem restoration. My presentation, titled “Community as Catalyst for Restoration,” emphasized that restoration efforts are most successful when driven by the collective efforts of local communities. I highlighted our work at Grown in Haiti, where community engagement has been the cornerstone of our initiatives.
At Grown in Haiti, we believe that empowering local communities with the knowledge and tools to restore their environment is key to achieving sustainable and lasting change. By involving community members in every step of the process, from planning to implementation, we ensure that restoration projects are tailored to local needs and are more likely to be maintained over the long term.
In addition to discussing community-driven restoration, I shared insights on syntropic farming, a method that has profoundly shaped our work in Haiti. Syntropic farming is more than just a technique; it is a philosophy that recognizes the interconnectedness of all living things. As I mentioned during my talk, “It’s very important to remember that you too are a part of the system. We are not trying to control what nature does. We are learning from nature and we are trying to mimic exactly what it is teaching us.”
This approach has proven transformative in our efforts at Grown in Haiti. By establishing ground cover, encouraging natural succession, and employing strategic planting to maximize photosynthesis, we’ve created self-sustaining systems that enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and contribute to climate change mitigation. The beauty of syntropic farming lies in its adaptability; it can be implemented in various environments, using native plants to restore ecosystems effectively.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the event was learning about the integration of indigenous wisdom into ecosystem restoration. Dr. Jessica Hutchings highlighted the Hua Parakore system in Aotearoa New Zealand, which beautifully marries Māori values with sustainable agricultural practices. This resonates deeply with me, as our work in Haiti also draws heavily on traditional ecological knowledge.
Indigenous wisdom offers a holistic perspective on our relationship with the earth, emphasizing values of kinship and reciprocity. These principles are not only sustainable but also essential for the long-term health of our planet. By honoring and integrating these ancient practices, we can create systems that are both resilient and regenerative.
“Generation Restoration” underscored the importance of community and collaboration in achieving our restoration goals. The event brought together a diverse group of individuals, each contributing unique insights and expertise. This collective wisdom is crucial in addressing the complex challenges we face in ecosystem restoration.
At Grown in Haiti, we have always believed in the power of community. Our initiatives, such as the “Adopt a Tree” campaign and our regenerative agroforestry workshops, are designed to engage and empower local communities. By working together, we can create a sustainable future where both people and nature thrive.
Participating in the “Generation Restoration” event was a profoundly enriching experience. It reaffirmed my belief in the importance of learning from nature and each other. As we move forward, let us continue to embrace diverse perspectives, honor traditional wisdom, and work collaboratively towards a healthier, more sustainable world.
I am grateful to Earthed for hosting this event and to everyone who participated, sharing their knowledge and passion. Together, we are not just restoring ecosystems; we are cultivating a legacy of stewardship and resilience for future generations.
For those interested, you can download the presentation I shared during the event here.
