Trees for Tomorrow

Maeva
2024-10-25T01:01:24+02:00

Dear customers, dear followers, aspiring bakers, and artisans, some of you have been with us for years. If that’s the case, you’ve probably noticed that we love quality and things done right, haven’t you?

At Vanillia, we have two main goals: to provide you with vanilla beans of impeccable quality and to have a positive impact on the environment. Of course, when we talk about a positive impact, it’s not just marketing hype or greenwashing like you see all too often... We’ve decided to plant trees—a lot of trees!

Since our founding in 2020, we have been members of "1% FOR THE PLANET," and it’s our greatest pride! Through this commitment, we pledge to donate 1% of our sales to environmental causes. Every year, we are audited and certified by "1% FOR THE PLANET" to ensure we uphold our promise.

This year, it is a great honor to announce that we have managed to plant 4,030 additional trees thanks to your purchases. That makes 7,200 trees planted since the beginning of our adventure in 2020!

Each new sprout is a symbol of our commitment to a more sustainable future.

1% FOR THE PLANET: an example of ecological cooperation

"1% FOR THE PLANET" was created in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, with the idea that businesses have a responsibility to actively engage in environmental causes. This global movement brings together companies committed to donating 1% of their annual sales to nonprofit organizations working to protect the environment.

The idea is based on a key principle: giving back to nature what it gives us. It’s not just about offsetting the negative consequences of human activity, but about actively contributing to ecological regeneration. "1% FOR THE PLANET" has raised over $300 million since its creation to fund various projects, from ocean conservation to reforestation.

For us, it was only natural to join this movement in 2020, right from the creation of the Vanillia brand. We are aware of our impact on the planet as a company, and we believe it is our responsibility to address it proactively. By choosing our vanilla beans, our customers not only treat themselves, they also contribute to reforestation and the preservation of biodiversity.

Why replant trees?

There are so many ways to help the environment, so why choose to replant trees? The answer is simple: it’s the most cost-effective solution for long-term impact.

Look at it this way: Selling 4 packs of vanilla at €25 each brings in €100 in revenue. We have to give back 1% of €100, so €1. With €1, we plant 1 tree. That tree will grow and develop for decades, absorbing large amounts of carbon. In fact, the amount of carbon it absorbs will be greater than what was needed to produce and deliver those 4 packs of vanilla to your door. So, our carbon footprint is actually negative in the long run.

1. Trees absorb carbon

Every year, about 2.4 billion tons of carbon dioxide are absorbed by trees. By storing carbon in their trunks, branches, leaves, and roots, this helps reduce the impact of climate change.

Planting trees has a direct impact on reducing CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, which slows down global warming.

Beyond storing carbon, trees help lower local temperatures.

The presence of greenery, for example, helps combat “heat islands”—areas where temperatures can reach up to 12°C higher than in neighboring rural zones.

2. Trees preserve diversity

Forests are also vital refuges for biodiversity. They are home to about 80% of the world’s animal, plant, and insect species. By planting trees, we restore lost or degraded ecosystems, providing habitats for a wide variety of species. This includes animals like tropical birds or primates, as well as endangered plant species.

3. Trees Protect Soil and Water Resources

Soils degraded by deforestation are more exposed to erosion in the absence of tree roots. Also, the lack of trees to absorb rainfall can lead to flooding and wash away the nutrients necessary for soil fertility.

Planting trees helps restore ecosystems on a global scale. Trees stabilize soil, reduce flood risks, and aid in the replenishment of groundwater by promoting water infiltration.

7,200 trees planted: a real impact

The species we plant are carefully selected in collaboration with local experts and partner organizations.

In Madagascar, where biodiversity is exceptional but under threat, we focus on planting native species that not only restore local ecosystems but also provide long-term economic benefits to surrounding communities.

Economic and Social Impacts

Let’s remember that reforestation isn’t just about environmental benefits. It also brings positive effects to local economies. In many parts of Madagascar, deforestation threatens rural communities. People in these areas can benefit from new plantings, especially fruit trees or fast-growing species that can be sustainably harvested.

Fruit trees, for example, produce edible fruits that can be sold at local markets or used for family consumption. This helps strengthen food security in regions often affected by economic instability.

Planting trees and more

Planting a tree is one thing, but ensuring its growth and prosperity is another. That’s why our reforestation approach goes beyond simply planting.

We are committed to carefully monitoring the trees we plant to ensure their maturity and long-term growth.

This means that teams on the ground monitor tree development, handle maintenance, and take corrective action when necessary, such as irrigating young shoots during dry periods.

Thanks to this monitoring, every tree planted makes a lasting contribution to the fight against climate change.

Toward a Greener Future: Our Goals for 2030

Although we are proud of the 7,200 trees planted so far, our work is just beginning. A new ambitious goal has been set: to plant 50,000 trees by 2030. This number, impressive as it is, is essential given the scale of the environmental challenges we face.

By continuing our close collaboration with partner organizations and local communities, and by raising greater awareness among our customers about the importance of reforestation, we will reach this goal. Every tree matters, and every action, no matter how small, has an impact.

By amplifying our initiatives, we also hope to encourage other companies to join the "1% for the Planet" movement and donate a portion of their revenue.

Our commitment to "1% FOR THE PLANET" and our involvement in reforestation show that it is possible to make a real difference. Since 2020, we have planted 7,200 trees, which, on our small scale, has helped regenerate forests, lower atmospheric carbon levels, and improve living conditions for local communities.

Thanks to you, your purchases and your support, we are committed to planting the seeds for a greener, more sustainable future. If you love our natural vanilla beans, spread the word to a friend, a cousin, a grandmother, or an uncle—that helps us the most and allows us to keep doing the right thing. Thank you!