Name: Alex Revelo
Volunteer Since: 2017
Roles: Tree Specialist and Photographer
Thoughts from Alex and why he volunteers with ReForest London:
I have lived in London, “The Forest City”, for the last 8 years and one of the things I like the most about this city is the number of trees that I can see from a high place. For me it is not the number of tall buildings that makes a city attractive, but the number of trees and natural spaces to enjoy. Because that has a direct impact on the well-being of the whole community for many years.
So, I fully support Reforest London’s efforts to make trees available, plant and care for them. I am also a nature photographer and have had the opportunity to volunteer for RFL as a photographer in some tree-planting events where I also participated as a tree-specialist.
It was the online announcement of the “Tree Specialist” training session offered by RFL that caught my attention and how I first learned about RFL almost 4 years ago. Since then, I have been very grateful to RFL for providing me the opportunity to learn more about trees and to collaborate in different ways towards the goal of one million trees planted in London. I do it because I believe in it and I enjoy doing it.
I think of trees as unique and superior manufacturing plants compared to factories because the only energy they need is free, from the sun, they are silent, not only do they beautify the environment in any season, but the by-products of their activity do not pollute either. Instead, they purify and enrich the environment, in addition to providing a variety of food and shelter. They support life in the best possible way and once they have developed, they convey a sense of permanence and security. I also believe that those who care about trees and the environment also care about people.
It gives me great satisfaction to see how many people of all ages attend tree planting and care events and are aware of the importance of doing so. Also, it has been a great opportunity to connect with like-minded people and learn more about trees.
