Hohnstein, a picturesque town in East Germany, is renowned for its lush landscapes within the Saxon Switzerland National Park. However, the effects of climate change and deforestation have threatened its biodiversity and increased the risk of soil erosion. To restore the area’s natural beauty and ecological health, the YAs of Northern Europe, in collaboration with SSSIO Germany, organized a tree-planting initiative from October 18 to 20, 2024. The event was timed to coincide with the auspicious weekend of Avatar Declaration Day, and 15 volunteers, including 5 YAs, came together to plant trees and contribute to Hohnstein’s reforestation efforts. 
The volunteers gathered on Friday evening for dinner and bhajans, along with a reflective session, discussing questions like: How can you ‘sow’ your love for Swami this weekend? How do you feel Swami’s love in your daily life? Over the weekend, the group braved the challenging terrain, supported by favorable weather, and planted an array of European larches, Scots pines, Douglas firs, silver firs, grey alders, and red beeches. These trees were carefully selected to enhance the forest’s resilience, sustainability, and biodiversity. After two days of dedicated effort, 1,910 trees were planted, leaving each participant tired yet full of vigor and fulfillment. 
Through their actions, the volunteers not only contributed to Hohnstein’s ecological health but also honored Swami’s teachings on the intimate bond between humanity and nature. 
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