Greenbelt Movement

Founded in 1977 by Professor Wangari Maathai, the Green Belt Movement (GBM) has planted over 51 million trees in Kenya. GBM works at the grassroots, national, and international levels to promote environmental conservation; to build climate resilience and empower communities, especially women and girls; to foster democratic space and sustainable livelihoods. Wangari Muta Maathai has become an international figure because of her persistence in the struggle for democracy, human rights and environmental conservation. She has been able to make many great advancements in both her personal life and the communities that she works to represent. Maathai is best known for her efforts to develop the Green Belt Movement, a grassroots organization that focuses on planting trees to replenish the environment and improve the quality of life. Because of her efforts, Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004. Wangari Maathai has become very important to the people of Kenya, Africa and the international community. Maathai feels very strongly about several issues that affect others’ lives on a daily basis. One of the issues that she is most active in is the issue of environmental conservation.
Because of her active role in the environment and the Green Belt Movement, more than 20 million trees have been planted, numerous other countries have begun tree planting programs, and women all over the world have been helped by the example that she sets. (Les Prix Nobel, 2005) As noted by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, she stood up courageously against an oppressive regime. She has served as an “inspiration for many in the fight for democratic rights and has especially encouraged women to better their situation.” My son and I planted a tree a while back and I have inspired my children to be GREEN because they spend a lot of time using technology I make them stop put the phones away and go play. They had a hard time at first believing that unplugging their chargers when they're not