• Tree Aid focusses on local development through agro-forestry business skills, management and support, and the use of tree products.

• Tree Aid’s concept is simple and incorporates local know-how with appropriate additional forestry management training and business advice. The resulting commercial activities are locally sustainable.

• The charity operates in some of the neediest countries: Burkina Faso is 173rd out of 177 on the HDR 2008 Index, Mali is 168th, Ghana is 142nd and Ethiopia is 169th.

• The tree-related business activities become a crucial source of income to stabilise earnings, allowing surplus to be used to benefit dependants through education and improved health as well as supporting the local economy.

• As a mature charity, Tree Aid has a history of dealing with the local issues, a strong track record, and a good supporter base of individuals.

• Staff employed by Tree Aid in the Burkina Faso office are locally sourced ensuring a high degree of invaluable local knowledge in the design and management of operations. Projects are kept within driving range of the West African office.

• 13,000 fuel efficient stoves are in operation thanks to Tree Aid.

• Establishing commercial nurseries helps communities supply future tree projects.

• Demand is high and the concept could be expanded to other similar regions.