In the bustling streets of Mexico City, a unique group of citizens has emerged, armed not with weapons, but with sledgehammers and a passion for their city’s trees. They call themselves ‘The Tree Army,’ and their mission is to protect and revitalize the urban forest, one tree at a time.
The mastermind behind this green guerilla movement is Arturo Hernández, a community activist who has gained a following through his humorous online posts addressing city issues. In May, Hernández launched The Tree Army in response to growing concerns from his followers about the state of trees in their neighborhoods. He believes that caring for trees is essential to a healthy city, providing shade, reducing pollution, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The Tree Army’s methods are as creative as they are effective. They confront illegal tree cutting, remove concrete that suffocates roots, and plant trees in areas where they are needed. Hernández and his team have a knack for engaging the public, encouraging bystanders to join in with a swing of the sledgehammer or offer a helping hand. Their efforts have caught the attention of many, with Hernández reporting over 15 messages a day from people reporting tree vandalism.
One typical example of their work involved an ash tree whose roots were encased in concrete poured by a nearby food preparation business to create parking for delivery motorcycles. The Tree Army, armed with sledgehammers, chipped away at the concrete, revealing the tree’s suffocated roots. After 20 minutes of intense hammering, the roots finally broke free, drawing a crowd of curious onlookers. Hernández, ever the community organizer, encouraged the observers to join the effort, emphasizing their own stake in the outcome.
The Tree Army’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. While many applaud their work, they have also faced opposition, including threats and even being chased. Hernández, however, remains undeterred, viewing such encounters as opportunities to educate and advocate for the importance of urban forestry. He emphasizes that they are fighting for a cause greater than themselves, a cause that will benefit generations to come.
María Toledo Garibaldi, an urban tree expert, praised The Tree Army’s initiative, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and a comprehensive management plan for urban trees. She emphasizes that the city must do more to protect its urban forest and ensure its sustainable future. While the city government acknowledges the need for tree care, they point to the complexities of managing trees along secondary roads, relying on borough governments to address these issues.
The Tree Army, despite its small size, has proven that even ordinary citizens can make a significant impact on their environment. They are a testament to the power of community engagement, humor, and determination in addressing urban challenges. As Hernández puts it, “We are The Tree Army because sometimes these are battles,” battles they are willing to fight for a healthier, greener future for Mexico City.
