iPhone App Plants Real Trees

by Jaymi Heimbuch, San Francisco, California on 12. 8.08
Science & Technology (product service system)

a real tree map and screenshot image
Images via A Real Tree

A cool iPhone app called A Real Tree does something very practical for the earth entirely apart from your iPhone. When you purchase the app, you’re actually supporting the reforestation of countries around the globe.

The app itself is really boring – pretty, but boring. It’s a virtual tree that you can affect, a little, by making the wind blow to spread its blossoms or get the birds to fly out from its branches. But what the app really does is pretty darn cool.

For just 99 cents, A Real Tree contributes to the education of communities on reforestation. Already in 12 countries, the organization is working to repair tropical areas without the use of toxic fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides, and gets local communities educated and involved in rehabilitating their forests.

A Real Tree work with Sustainable Harvest International and Trees for the Future.

While the app might seem a little dull at first, it’s worth hanging on to as A Real Tree promises future surprises for what you’ll be able to do with your virtual tree.

Via Good Clean Tech

More Great Green iPhone Apps to Check Out:
Eco Up Your iPhone with ECOcal
Carticipate iPhone Mobile Social Network Ride Sharing Application
20 Ways Your iPhone Can Save You Gas, Energy, Time and Money

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Comments (6)

This is much better then apps that do nothing for the Earth, Most people use these things just to play anyhow.

"This is much better then apps that do nothing for the Earth". haha. That's the best quote of the year!

jump to top Scott says:

Unless you really want the app this is pretty silly since Apple is going to recieve 30% of the sale revenue. You ought to just bypass the app store and donate money directly for maximum effect.

jump to top Eniryt Manaen says:

I think its a great idea and concept. Even if it is a virtual tree be cause in reality its still helping for the cause. So don't be shy and sign up for this app!!! GO GREEN!!!!!

Hi Jaymi,

Thanks for blogging about us! It is great that people really get the point that the app is supposed to be simple. It is a minimalist approach. There are a few things we are thinking of adding to the app.

Thanks,
Hans
mokugift - the makers of A Real Tree.

Hi Jaymi,

Today we are announcing our partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20081216005436/en

Take care,
Hans
mokugift - the makers of A Real Tree

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