Kotani Pay commemorates Earth Day by supporting tree farmers

Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, global temperatures have increased by 10°C. Global warming has altered the earth’s climate system resulting in severe weather such as drought. Developing countries have significantly felt the impact most. The number one cause of this is human influence.

Each year, we lose 15 billion trees to deforestation. According to UNEP this practice together with the burning of trees increases (CO₂) emissions by 20%.

Invest in our planet

In order to reduce 40% of CO₂ emissions before 2030, it is our collective responsibility to take action. On this year’s Earth Day, we are challenging ourselves to take bold steps to preserve and protect our planet. Investing in our planet means giving our time, funds, and energy in ensuring that we reduce global warming.

One of the ways you can do so is by planting a tree. Depending on several factors, one tree is able to absorb between 10 and 40Kg of CO₂ per year on average. A typical hardwood tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year. By either planting a tree or donating and supporting others who are planting trees, you become part of the solution.

Kotani Pay and Treejer mission

The partnership between Kotani Pay and Treejer has made it possible for African tree planters to convert their digital assets to fiat currency. Treejer functions as a link between tree funders and planters. They use blockchain technology to ensure secure payments to the farmers in remote areas. These farmers are paid using DAI, a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. Kotani Pay helps them convert their stablecoins to local currency, withdraw using mobile money and use it for their daily expenses.

The transparent nature of these transactions makes it possible for anyone to track and fund tree planting activities. The majority of these farmers have no bank accounts and live in interior places. Accessing banking services or smartphones may prove to be a challenge. Kotani Pay has made it possible for them to access banking services such as receiving and withdrawing funds using their feature phones.

This unique borderless approach to climate action ensures that trees are planted in high-impact locations. Treejer farmers not only plant the trees but also maintain these trees for their unique environmental and social purpose. As of now, Kotani Pay currently works with planters in Uganda and Ghana.