Launched in 2019, Footprints is a long-term commitment to improve the footprint my photography leaves behind.
When I share a photo online I hope it connects with someone - brightening their day, or fostering interest in the natural world.
And when someone buys a print I want to offer something extra - by directing a portion of my sales to fund environmental projects around the world. That's what Footprints is all about.
For every print sold, a portion of the proceeds will go to the World Land Trust, to fund the planting and care of a new tree. As part of their Plant a Tree programme, they will nurture a sapling from seed, plant it where it's most needed, and protect the tree in perpetuity, to help restore a damaged habitat for wildlife. Seeds are carefully gathered from local forests, to ensure that the eco-system is maintained with native species.
One print = one tree :-)
Of course there are a range of environmental causes I could have chosen, but for me it had to be the planting of trees and restoration of woodland habitats.
After much research, I've chosen to support The World Land Trust. What I like about WLT is that they aren't just planting trees. They're buying up land in carefully chosen locations, which can be dedicated for nature, and then planting saplings, grown from seed by local people, and protecting them in situ until maturity. It's long-term thinking, and it's the most positive direct action I can think of. But don't take my word for it. Sir David Attenborough is a vocal supporter and patron, as is Chris Packham; two of my personal heroes.
An introduction to the World Land Trust:
WLT are currently funding the REGUA tree planting and forest restoration in Brazil, as Michael Palin explains...
Thank you for choosing to buy from an independent artist, and for helping to support this cause with me.