1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites

Brazil: Planting trees to protect the rainforest

19:28

This browser does not support the video element.

November 6, 2025

In 40 years, the Schaffer family has planted 10 million trees to revive the rainforest. Now, daughter Carolina Schaffer carries their mission forward as Brazil aims to restore 12 million hectares of forest.

Brazil’s Forest Makers – How One Family Is Rebuilding a Landscape

In a world where forests are disappearing and the climate is shifting, an extraordinary story of hope unfolds in southern Brazil: For decades, one family has worked tirelessly to restore and protect the Atlantic Forest – one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth.

Driven by their personal commitment, they founded the environmental organization Apremavi – and have achieved remarkable impact: 10 million planted trees, species returning, and vibrant habitats emerging.

Now, daughter Carolina Schaffer carries the mission forward, facing the growing challenges of climate change. Although the Atlantic Forest of Brazil has been largely destroyed, it holds incredible potential for regeneration — and this family is proving what dedication and vision can accomplish. 

For more like this, follow this link

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW