July 18, 2025

Eucalyptus forest, Urubici, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Today's image takes us to Santa Catarina in Brazil. This is a reforestation area where beauty and functionality share the same space. Tall, aligned and fast-growing, these trees are not native to the country — they came from Oceania, but took root here in the early 20th century. Eucalyptus is now one of the most planted species in the country, the basis for the production of paper, cellulose and charcoal. When well-managed, especially in already degraded areas, it can relieve pressure on native forests and favour soil recovery. However, in large areas, the continuous cultivation of eucalyptus can alter the local environment, affecting biodiversity and water dynamics.

Reforestation can seem simple, but there's more to it. Each tree poses a bigger question: how can we use the land and still protect nature? The future of Brazil's land depends on finding this balance. Even planted forests can create space for life. A forest can start with just an idea.