Identity, author Amin Maalouf once wrote, is always multiple and complex. For Manuel Martínez from Alvelal, Ecosia’s tree-planting partner in Spain, this rings true at many levels.
During his young adulthood, Manuel travelled Spain and the world working as an agronomist. Now, in his sixties and retired, he is fully living out his other identity as a tree-planting farmer.
Manuel remembers how rich the landscapes of his home region once were before he left his childhood home in southern Spain. When he returned, he was heartbroken to see they had turned barren, affecting both nature and people.
In his journey as an agronomist, he learned about regenerative farming practices and their potential to turn dry soils back into lush spaces.
Today, through his multiple identities, Manuel plants trees and also advises Alvelal on regenerative practices, hoping to give back to nature and to those coming after him.
Watch Manuel’s story above and let us know what you think.
