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With Traditional Native Tree Giveaway, Forest Engineers Celebrate Their Day in Concepción

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While hundreds of people stood in line with their hands ready to receive a plant, something deeper than a tree giveaway was being celebrated: theDay of the Forest Engineer, a date to recognize those who dedicate their lives to caring for our forests, restoring ecosystems, and connecting people with nature.

To commemorate this day, the Faculty of Forest Sciences at the University of Concepción gifted 8,000 native tree plants to the community of Greater Concepción, in a tradition that since 2011 has transformed yards, squares, and gardens into new green lungs.

The ceremony, filled with students, authorities, and neighbors, was a living example of what it means to be a forest engineer: planting today what will provide shade tomorrow. Attendees included authorities such as Vice Chancellor Paulina Rincón, CONAF Executive Director Aida Baldini, and the President of the College of Forest Engineers, Simón Berti, who highlighted the essential role of these professionals in addressing the challenges of climate change, ecological restoration, and sustainable forest management.

Aida Baldini, Executive Director of CONAF, stated that forest engineering is the foundation of our ecosystem: "It truly is the basis for making forests sustainable. We need forest intervention to achieve people's well-being. We need wood, we need oxygen, we need paper, etc. The truth is that forest engineering provides the environmental, ecological, and economic balance of production and the environment created by forests, not only in Chile but worldwide."

CMPC, as a company that works side by side with forest engineers in the protection and responsible management of forests, was an active part of the event, proudly sharing this moment that unites academia, business, and citizens for a common good: more trees, more life.

"Celebrating the Day of the Forest Engineer is essential, especially in the current context of climate change, where forest engineering plays a key role in both ecosystem conservation and the sustainable production of goods for society. At CMPC, we feel deeply connected to the country's forestry development, which is why we actively participate in this celebration. It's not just about giving away native trees but also about educating, raising awareness, and valuing the care of these species as a concrete action for the environment," saidTeresa Bravo, Territorial Engagement Manager at CMPC.

Students of Forest Engineering, Natural Resource Conservation, and Plant Biotechnology not only handed out plants but also shared knowledge and enthusiasm. They explained which species were best for shade, which for dry soil, or which tree attracts more biodiversity.

From quillay trees to arrayanes, including oaks, canelos, coihues, and peumos, over 20 native species were sent to new urban homes, ready to grow and transform the city.