The Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Providencia in Floridablanca, Santander, Colombia, has spearheaded an environmental initiative known as “Adopt a Tree for the Sanctuary.” We spoke with Leonor Esther Ramírez Florez, Environmental Pastoral Coordinator and Laudato Si’ Animator, to learn more about this project and its impact on the local community.
Project Description and Parish Motivation
The “Adopt a Tree for the Sanctuary” project began as a way to replace trees lost during the sanctuary’s construction, meeting the requirements set by the Corporation for the Defense of the Plateau of Bucaramanga (CDMB). Leonor explained that the initiative aimed to reclaim a degraded area previously used as a dumping ground, which had harmed the local water, air, and soil. “When our parish priest asked us to lead this project, we saw an opportunity to not only replace the trees but also to revitalize the area and instill a sense of ownership and environmental responsibility in the community,” she shared.
How to Involve the Help of Others
One of the most significant challenges the project faced was engaging the community and overcoming general apathy towards environmental conservation. Leonor and her team realized they needed more than just physical actions; they needed to inspire a change in mindset.
To achieve this, they organized activities such as cleanup days, inviting the community to experience the transformed space, and collaborating with local environmental entities to offer educational and social events. There were several ways to get involved. Leonor suggested spreading the word about the initiative, visiting the site, participating in workdays, and, if possible, contributing financially to develop infrastructure such as trails, protective barriers, and signage. “Every contribution, big or small, helps advance the mission of preserving and beautifying this natural space,” she concluded.
Community Impact
Since the project’s inception, there has been a noticeable shift in the attitude of some community leaders and members towards environmental conservation. Leonor highlighted how many have come together to help with maintenance tasks, providing labor, tools, and support during planting days. “It’s encouraging to see the community actively participate and report actions that could harm the area,” she commented. This participation has been crucial to the project’s success and sustainability.
Future Goals
Although the project was initially planned for three years, with its completion in September 2024, Leonor emphasized that the work doesn’t end there. “Our goal is for the area to be declared a gallery forest reserve and to develop an ecological trail that serves as a living classroom for students,” she noted. This expansion includes observing species of butterflies, insects, squirrels, and birds, further promoting environmental education and appreciation of biodiversity.
The “Adopt a Tree for the Sanctuary” project is an example of how a community can come together to restore and protect the environment. With a focus on education and community involvement, this project not only benefits nature but also strengthens the social fabric and environmental awareness of the community.