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Treewilding: Our Past, Present and Future Relationship with Forests
As we clear millions of hectares of forests globally, the challenge of restoring these precious ecosystems becomes ever more pressing. The stakes are a staggering 95% of Earth’s land could succumb to degradation by 2050. While the task might appear straightforward – simply plant millions of trees – the reality is far more perplexing. Haphazard tree-planting in unsuitable locations can wreak havoc on ecosystems and jeopardise the livelihoods of local communities.
The surge of interest in restoring forests has ushered in a wave of greenwashing, where deceptive environmental marketing and scientific mishaps undermine genuine efforts. Yet this new focus also brings forth a plethora of solutions and many rays of hope. Amidst such a complex landscape, cutting-edge science and Indigenous knowledge together can redefine our understanding in a way that not only helps regenerate nature but also allows human communities to thrive.
This original, topical and engaging book navigates the intricate web of forest restoration. It reveals how a nuanced approach is required – one that integrates the latest scientific advancements (for instance in microbial ecology, acoustic technology and epigenetics), Indigenous leadership and a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of life within these vital ecosystems. Treewilding asks us to reflect on our relationship with trees and how we must see the woods (complex social and ecological systems) for the wood (timber) – a realisation that is perhaps the biggest ‘secret’ to restoring nature.
The surge of interest in restoring forests has ushered in a wave of greenwashing, where deceptive environmental marketing and scientific mishaps undermine genuine efforts. Yet this new focus also brings forth a plethora of solutions and many rays of hope. Amidst such a complex landscape, cutting-edge science and Indigenous knowledge together can redefine our understanding in a way that not only helps regenerate nature but also allows human communities to thrive.
This original, topical and engaging book navigates the intricate web of forest restoration. It reveals how a nuanced approach is required – one that integrates the latest scientific advancements (for instance in microbial ecology, acoustic technology and epigenetics), Indigenous leadership and a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of life within these vital ecosystems. Treewilding asks us to reflect on our relationship with trees and how we must see the woods (complex social and ecological systems) for the wood (timber) – a realisation that is perhaps the biggest ‘secret’ to restoring nature.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2024
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September 8, 2024
Review of ‘Treewilding’ by Jake M Robinson
How would you describe a tree? Would you talk about its trunk, its branches, its leaves, its roots, its abundant life? Would you describe it as an object or a subject?
How many species of tree can you name in 30 seconds?
Our knowledge, relationship and connection with trees, forests and woodlands, may be under threat, in a world which demands speed and consumption. And yet, to trees, our life spans of around 80 years, can be the blink of an eye to a tree which has stood proudly for centuries.
In ‘Treewilding- Our Past, Present and Future Relationship with Forests’, Jake M Robinson takes us on a journey- not of discovery, but of memory. A journey designed to rebuild and regrow this truly ancient relationship between two organic beings- humans and trees.
A nature-depleted world
Robinson begins by highlighting the extent of the problem, by emphasising that, ‘‘At a global scale, we teeter on the precipice of unrivalled biodiversity loss and climate chaos, so restoring forests (and other) ecosystems is vital.’ He points to the example of the UK as a place where the connection between nature and urban spaces has been broken- where a cultural understanding has been lost. ‘The UK was recently named one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.’
A re-shaping and a re-framing of our positioning with the natural world is essential- Robinson argues to reform our attitude to the natural world and to shift the ideology that nature is there simply to be used by humans as a resource. Or to quote the 1986 Star Trek 4 positioning of humanity’s positioning of itself as superior to all other life forms- ‘If we were to assume that these whales are ours to do with as we please, we would be as guilty as those who caused their extinction.’
Robinson continues this argument almost 40 years later when he says, ‘It’s vital that we brush away the egocentrism that positions humans at the top of a hierarchy of life and cultivate a deeper connection with, and truly respect the complexity of, other life forms.’
In small ways, in small places, there are shoots of this shift from ego-centrism to ecocentrism. In August, 2024, Paul Powlesland became the first person in the UK to swear a legal oath on a natural entity- this time, of the River Roding. He commented, It’s another way of reintroducing the idea of nature as sacred back into our legal system, finding playful ways to demonstrate to the world that nature is alive, that nature is sacred and we have duties towards it.’
Survivors of lost worlds
Robinson charts the history of trees and praises their ability of surviving-so far- despite all odds in the historic and geological records. They emerged approximately 400 million years ago- before the Triassic and Jurassic periods- and survived the mass extinction events in Earth’s history, including the famous dinosaur-killing event around 66 million years ago.
Around the world today, there are several claims of trees which have also survived the modern world- from the Methuselah tree of almost 5,000 years old, to giant sequoias dating back 3,000 years.
Robinson outlines the significant levels of deforestation that have taken place during the agricultural period. ‘50% of global deforestation occurred between 10,000 years ago and 1900, and the other 50% occurred in the last century.’ Additionally, this rate has sadly been matched over the last century itself- ‘Yet, in the last 100 years, the world has lost as much forest as it had in the previous 9,000 years.’ Whether this has been the end result of empire building, colonialism and the resource depletion which comes with this, or an attitudinal ideology which only sees nature as a resource to be exploited, remains debatable.
As Robinson summarises, ‘Our thirst for convenience at all costs means we often fail to see the woods (the ecological and social systems) for the wood (the timber).’
Our present relationship with trees
Robinson then highlights the social and economical importance of trees and nature- describing their sacred, ceremonial, and community roles that they have played to different cultures. However, he also cleverly positions these issues of the benefits to humans with developer tree- felling plans, to emphasise what is currently being lost. Forest bathing as a medicinal prescription is booming as a practice- with the mantra of ‘Let forests be thy medicine’, but here again, lies the issue that we are potentially exploiting nature simply for the benefit which it brings humans. For the moment though, if this is an avenue which preserves and maintains forests and trees, perhaps it should be celebrated.
Forest restoration and regeneration
Robinson then outlines successful restoration practices and methods around the world, arguing that, ‘We need to take an ecological approach to tree planting.’ He praises projects in Costa Rica and at the Knepp Rewilding Project in the UK. Robinson suggests that modern technology can help hugely with restoration ecology and that the use of ecoacoustics and drone mapping and monitoring can help humans learn more about the dynamic relationships within tree communities.
The right tree, in the right place, at the right time, is a far more effective approach than huge monoculture plantations that run the risk of not achieving very much at all. He argues that we have a lot to learn from syntropic farming methods to see if they can be scaled up- these can require long term vision and management, which humans are notoriously bad at. Natural forest regeneration, such as the Miyawaki method from Japan could be transferred to other areas such as India and Europe, in order to complement and aid the regeneration that is necessary.
There are dangers to be on the lookout for though- threats to local biodiversity, finance and the skills required to help maintain the restoration methods. Planting is not the ‘golden bullet’ so sought after, but growth and management are key. Stewardship is perhaps another way of phrasing this narrative. We are simply stewards for future generations. Will they thank us when forests regrow and are restored- or will they curse us when the last tree is cut down simply to satisfy our material wants?
Greenwashing alerts
Robinson warns that we should be on the alert from political greenwashing promises- in particular promises by organisations and individuals to plant thousands, or even millions of trees. He lists 10 key pitfalls of these greenwashing promises: from failure rates, the potential reduction of water availability, and the continued colonial concern that the Global South becomes responsible for capturing emissions from the Global North.
What we can learn from trees
Above and beyond what we can learn from trees about our past, in terms of information about fires and droughts, owing to tree rings- there is a lot to be learned about how we can recreate a more symbiotic relationship with nature. Turning urban areas into urban forests, exploring ‘living architecture’ and exploring how nature can help us turn the tide on catastrophic climate change. Robinson explains that, ‘A tree is a teacher’ and so, like any good student, we need to be open and receptive to the lessons that we can learn.
We need to listen to the trees. We need to be reminded that they were here before us and will be here after us.
Whether humans like it or not, we are a part of this world- not apart from this world. There are organic bonds linking all living things- both visible and invisible.
Our ideology and narratives towards trees and nature needs to shift from seeing them as objects, to understanding their complex systems and internal communities.
We need more nature champions, unafraid to speak out that our current view of nature being a disposable and expendable resource, could see so much more being lost than we can currently imagine.
How would you describe a tree? Would you talk about its trunk, its branches, its leaves, its roots, its abundant life? Would you describe it as an object or a subject?
How many species of tree can you name in 30 seconds?
Our knowledge, relationship and connection with trees, forests and woodlands, may be under threat, in a world which demands speed and consumption. And yet, to trees, our life spans of around 80 years, can be the blink of an eye to a tree which has stood proudly for centuries.
In ‘Treewilding- Our Past, Present and Future Relationship with Forests’, Jake M Robinson takes us on a journey- not of discovery, but of memory. A journey designed to rebuild and regrow this truly ancient relationship between two organic beings- humans and trees.
A nature-depleted world
Robinson begins by highlighting the extent of the problem, by emphasising that, ‘‘At a global scale, we teeter on the precipice of unrivalled biodiversity loss and climate chaos, so restoring forests (and other) ecosystems is vital.’ He points to the example of the UK as a place where the connection between nature and urban spaces has been broken- where a cultural understanding has been lost. ‘The UK was recently named one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.’
A re-shaping and a re-framing of our positioning with the natural world is essential- Robinson argues to reform our attitude to the natural world and to shift the ideology that nature is there simply to be used by humans as a resource. Or to quote the 1986 Star Trek 4 positioning of humanity’s positioning of itself as superior to all other life forms- ‘If we were to assume that these whales are ours to do with as we please, we would be as guilty as those who caused their extinction.’
Robinson continues this argument almost 40 years later when he says, ‘It’s vital that we brush away the egocentrism that positions humans at the top of a hierarchy of life and cultivate a deeper connection with, and truly respect the complexity of, other life forms.’
In small ways, in small places, there are shoots of this shift from ego-centrism to ecocentrism. In August, 2024, Paul Powlesland became the first person in the UK to swear a legal oath on a natural entity- this time, of the River Roding. He commented, It’s another way of reintroducing the idea of nature as sacred back into our legal system, finding playful ways to demonstrate to the world that nature is alive, that nature is sacred and we have duties towards it.’
Survivors of lost worlds
Robinson charts the history of trees and praises their ability of surviving-so far- despite all odds in the historic and geological records. They emerged approximately 400 million years ago- before the Triassic and Jurassic periods- and survived the mass extinction events in Earth’s history, including the famous dinosaur-killing event around 66 million years ago.
Around the world today, there are several claims of trees which have also survived the modern world- from the Methuselah tree of almost 5,000 years old, to giant sequoias dating back 3,000 years.
Robinson outlines the significant levels of deforestation that have taken place during the agricultural period. ‘50% of global deforestation occurred between 10,000 years ago and 1900, and the other 50% occurred in the last century.’ Additionally, this rate has sadly been matched over the last century itself- ‘Yet, in the last 100 years, the world has lost as much forest as it had in the previous 9,000 years.’ Whether this has been the end result of empire building, colonialism and the resource depletion which comes with this, or an attitudinal ideology which only sees nature as a resource to be exploited, remains debatable.
As Robinson summarises, ‘Our thirst for convenience at all costs means we often fail to see the woods (the ecological and social systems) for the wood (the timber).’
Our present relationship with trees
Robinson then highlights the social and economical importance of trees and nature- describing their sacred, ceremonial, and community roles that they have played to different cultures. However, he also cleverly positions these issues of the benefits to humans with developer tree- felling plans, to emphasise what is currently being lost. Forest bathing as a medicinal prescription is booming as a practice- with the mantra of ‘Let forests be thy medicine’, but here again, lies the issue that we are potentially exploiting nature simply for the benefit which it brings humans. For the moment though, if this is an avenue which preserves and maintains forests and trees, perhaps it should be celebrated.
Forest restoration and regeneration
Robinson then outlines successful restoration practices and methods around the world, arguing that, ‘We need to take an ecological approach to tree planting.’ He praises projects in Costa Rica and at the Knepp Rewilding Project in the UK. Robinson suggests that modern technology can help hugely with restoration ecology and that the use of ecoacoustics and drone mapping and monitoring can help humans learn more about the dynamic relationships within tree communities.
The right tree, in the right place, at the right time, is a far more effective approach than huge monoculture plantations that run the risk of not achieving very much at all. He argues that we have a lot to learn from syntropic farming methods to see if they can be scaled up- these can require long term vision and management, which humans are notoriously bad at. Natural forest regeneration, such as the Miyawaki method from Japan could be transferred to other areas such as India and Europe, in order to complement and aid the regeneration that is necessary.
There are dangers to be on the lookout for though- threats to local biodiversity, finance and the skills required to help maintain the restoration methods. Planting is not the ‘golden bullet’ so sought after, but growth and management are key. Stewardship is perhaps another way of phrasing this narrative. We are simply stewards for future generations. Will they thank us when forests regrow and are restored- or will they curse us when the last tree is cut down simply to satisfy our material wants?
Greenwashing alerts
Robinson warns that we should be on the alert from political greenwashing promises- in particular promises by organisations and individuals to plant thousands, or even millions of trees. He lists 10 key pitfalls of these greenwashing promises: from failure rates, the potential reduction of water availability, and the continued colonial concern that the Global South becomes responsible for capturing emissions from the Global North.
What we can learn from trees
Above and beyond what we can learn from trees about our past, in terms of information about fires and droughts, owing to tree rings- there is a lot to be learned about how we can recreate a more symbiotic relationship with nature. Turning urban areas into urban forests, exploring ‘living architecture’ and exploring how nature can help us turn the tide on catastrophic climate change. Robinson explains that, ‘A tree is a teacher’ and so, like any good student, we need to be open and receptive to the lessons that we can learn.
We need to listen to the trees. We need to be reminded that they were here before us and will be here after us.
Whether humans like it or not, we are a part of this world- not apart from this world. There are organic bonds linking all living things- both visible and invisible.
Our ideology and narratives towards trees and nature needs to shift from seeing them as objects, to understanding their complex systems and internal communities.
We need more nature champions, unafraid to speak out that our current view of nature being a disposable and expendable resource, could see so much more being lost than we can currently imagine.
September 19, 2024
Trees have been on Earth for around 400 million years, surviving major events like the mass extinction that killed the dinosaurs and numerous ice ages. However, they now face a severe threat from human activities. Since the start of agriculture, vast areas of forests have been cleared for farming and livestock, with 1.5 billion hectares lost in the last 300 years. This deforestation has resulted in biodiversity loss, desertification, and increased risks of flooding and disease outbreaks.
In Treewilding, Jake Robinson explores how forests can be protected and restored. He challenges the notion that tree planting alone can solve deforestation, highlighting the risks of monocultures and poorly researched initiatives. He stresses the need for a holistic approach, considering local ecosystems, biodiversity, and Indigenous knowledge. Robinson showcases various forest restoration projects, such as the Great Green Wall in Africa and the Gondwana Link in Australia, which aim to restore degraded landscapes and increase biodiversity. He also introduces ecoacoustics, a method of studying ecosystems through sound.
Ultimately, Robinson concludes that natural regeneration — allowing forests to heal themselves — is one of the most effective restoration methods, comparing it to the mythical phoenix rising from its ashes. His vivid descriptions and thought-provoking questions encourage more profound reflection on how to support forest ecosystems best.
For the complete review, please visit: https://www.nature.com/articles/d4158...
In Treewilding, Jake Robinson explores how forests can be protected and restored. He challenges the notion that tree planting alone can solve deforestation, highlighting the risks of monocultures and poorly researched initiatives. He stresses the need for a holistic approach, considering local ecosystems, biodiversity, and Indigenous knowledge. Robinson showcases various forest restoration projects, such as the Great Green Wall in Africa and the Gondwana Link in Australia, which aim to restore degraded landscapes and increase biodiversity. He also introduces ecoacoustics, a method of studying ecosystems through sound.
Ultimately, Robinson concludes that natural regeneration — allowing forests to heal themselves — is one of the most effective restoration methods, comparing it to the mythical phoenix rising from its ashes. His vivid descriptions and thought-provoking questions encourage more profound reflection on how to support forest ecosystems best.
For the complete review, please visit: https://www.nature.com/articles/d4158...
January 12, 2025
In Treewilding, Jake Robinson provides a look at the wonders of trees and forests, how forests are being lost, and attempts to restore trees and forests. The book has stylistic similarities to Merlin Sheldrake's Entangled Life about the wonders of fungi. Treewilding provides a good summary of the current state of our knowledge about trees and forests. Robinson seems to be trying to appeal to both a general audience and professionals in the field. It is probably a bit light for professionals but should work well for an interested general reader.
August 3, 2024
A fantastically interesting and accessible book for those who want to understand our forests and our place within them!
December 3, 2025
trees are life and life is in the trees
December 31, 2024
An interesting book looking at the human relationship with trees, forests and rewilding. Going from some basic ecology, a little bit of history of deforestation to reforestation methods and projects from around the world, including the physiological linking humans to trees and forests.
It a book that is written in easily accessible language, that makes it a good read, rather than one that's full tied down with stodgy language.
It a book that is written in easily accessible language, that makes it a good read, rather than one that's full tied down with stodgy language.
August 4, 2024
A fantastically interesting and accessible book for those who want to understand our forests and our place within them!
August 4, 2024
Outstanding book on human-nature interrelations. A must read.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews