May 17, 2021, the meeting of 40-4-40 project organizers was led by Fr. Bros Flores (JCAP indigenous ministry), Fr. Pedro Walpole (EcoJesuit Global Coordinator), Sylvia Miclat (ESSC Director) and Louie Bacomo (JRS Regional Director) and 15 participants representing parishes, social outreach and research units in Jesuit mission areas and partners in Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Philippines.

Fr. Pedro opened the meeting with a discussion of socio-cultural, ecological and economic concerns of the participating communities to improve the chances of success of growing trees and strengthening communities. All participating communities submitted their response to a prior survey on community selection of land sites and tree species, interaction and impact of growing trees with other land uses in their areas. The participating communities expressed their intention to contribute to their community’s social cohesion, livelihoods, their forest resources and environment. An ongoing project on Payment for Ecological Services (PES) implemented by the Xavier Science Foundation also provided a long-term opportunity for communities just starting.

To mark the 40th anniversary of Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), our partner communities in Asia Pacific are growing 40,000 trees to strengthen their social and ecological systems. We are called to an ecological conversion and live a life that respects and promotes integral ecology and care for our common home.

Donating $1 USD will assure the growth of 1 native tree. https://apr.jrs.net/en/donate

For more information about 40-4-40 project, visit https://bit.ly/3uRb8lx