In Kenya an initiative has been launched that will see the barter system used to help the environment. The initiative is aimed at reversing tree losses in the Nyeri Forest by using an unusual barter system, offering a variety of items in exchange for tree planting through the Kiangure Springs Environmental Initiative (KSEI).
Deforestation is a problem across the central Kenya highlands. Nyeri County has the highest tree cover in Kenya but its forests are dwindling for various reasons, most of them related to humans. This loss is problematic for more than Nyeri County itself as the forested hills of Kenya are vital water catchment that supplyneighboring regions, and as the trees disappear erosion worsens, rainfall decreases and water supplies dry up.
To turn the tide, a program was developed using bartering as a way to get citizens in the area involved with immediate benefit. The programs offer residents a "gift" in exchange for their help in the reforestation effort, in other words, in exchange for planting a tree.
KSEI’s reforestation program lets people choose from chickens, goats or subsidized energy technology biogas systems, solar energy packs or efficient cook stoves. In exchange, recipients agree to plant 5,000 trees a year and look after them until they are strong saplings.
Some area residents have taken full advantage of the program, planting far more than their 5,000 to gain more “gifts”. The project is seen as a “win-win” for all involved.