How does the simple act of planting trees lead to political change and a Nobel Peace Prize? Three decades ago, Wangari Maathai suggested to rural women in her native Kenya that they plant trees trees for firewood and to stop soil erosion—an act that grew into a nationwide movement to safeguard the environment, defend human rights and fight government injustice.
“I started planting trees and found myself in the forefront of fighting for the restoration of democracy in my country.” Wangari Maathai Wangari Maathai helping a young girl pour the contents of a watering can onto seedlings in dirt
Five people bending over with their hands on a small garden patch, surrounded by trees
Wangari Maathai
Dedicated to addressing the roots of social and environmental issues, Wangari Maathai has been a groundbreaking figure in both her work and in her personal life.
Explore the words and work
of Wangari Maathai >>
Deforestation 101
The destruction of indigenous forests has far-reaching social and environmental impacts. With more than 80 percent of the Earth’s natural forests already gone, green areas are now becoming desert.
Discover the main causes and effects of deforestation >>
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