RETREET BLOG

RETREET redefines disaster relief by engaging communities to replant lost trees.


 
SUNDAY SHOW & TELL
vol.97

A German forest ranger named Peter Wohlleben made a name for himself by releasing his book "The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate - Discoveries from a Secret World," which unexpectedly became a national bestseller. These days, he spends most of his time out of the forest and on the publicity circuit talking about the social networks of trees. The ways in which they work together will surprise you!

TREES HAVE SOCIAL NETWORKS (article)

TREES HAVE SOCIAL NETWORKS (article)

We have presented several articles over the past couple of years regarding the psychological benefits of trees. Certainly, there is no better evidence of this than the sentiments received from the residents of the communities in which we plant. Bicycles, too, improve moods. But how, and why?

WHY CYCLING MAKES US HAPPY (article)

WHY CYCLING MAKES US HAPPY (article)

In Singapore, a fascinating new construction project incorporates a giant vertical forest nestled between four apartment buildings. The Green Heart, as it is known, resembles rice terraces and incorporates gardens, pools, waterfalls, and, of course, tons and tons of trees. We hope to see this one day!

A FOREST IN AN ATRIUM (photo essay)

A FOREST IN AN ATRIUM (photo essay)

 


 
SUNDAY SHOW & TELL
vol.95

Since riding bicycles is taboo for women in Syria, a group of their German counterparts is teaching recent refugees how to navigate the streets on two wheels. Not only are these women experiencing a newfound freedom of movement, they're also taking an important step towards becoming a local. Inspiring!

TEACHING SYRIAN REFUGEES HOW TO CYCLE (article)

TEACHING SYRIAN REFUGEES HOW TO CYCLE (article)

Speaking of Germany, that country has taken an idea pioneered in The Netherlands and Denmark and run with it, commencing construction of its first bicycle autobahn. Spanning over 60 miles, the new cycling superhighway will connect 10 western cities and 4 universities, taking an expected 50,000 cars off of the road daily. Sounds like heaven.

THE BICYCLE AUTOBAHN (article)

THE BICYCLE AUTOBAHN (article)

Many studies have shown the multitude of benefits that trees bring to the adult mind, but a new study out of the University of Nebraska and Troy University has found that trees enhance children's brains too. Read about how some time in the park can impact a child's executive functioning skills at the link below.

TREES ENHANCE CHILDREN'S BRAINS (article)

TREES ENHANCE CHILDREN'S BRAINS (article)