Wedding to a Tree in Amsterdam: Joining Hearts for the Amazon

The imports of The Netherlands are linked to the loss of approximately 23,400 hectares of forest each year, an area larger than the city of Amsterdam.

Deforestation is a global issue that affects us all, and the Netherlands plays a significant role in this challenge. Recent research shows that the Netherlands accounts for 15.7% of the EU's total deforestation exposure.
The Amazon rainforest, often called the "lungs of the Earth," is especially impacted, leading to loss of biodiversity, disruption of indigenous communities, and acceleration of climate change.
But together, we can make a difference.
Peruvian artist and environmental activist Richard Torres, renowned for his symbolic "Weddings to Trees," invites you to a heartfelt ceremony in Amsterdam. During this gathering, we will partake in a symbolic tree wedding, observe a minute of silence for the Amazon and express our gratitude to Mother Earth. We welcome you to bring your acoustic instruments to contribute gentle music to this special occasion. Through this action, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Amazon rainforest and reflect on how our choices here in the Netherlands impact forests worldwide.

Date and Time:

• Saturday, 9 November
• Midday (12:00 PM)

Location:

• Leidsebosje, in front of the sculpture 'Horizontale compositie' by Henk Zweerus
• Coordinates:

How You Can Participate

• Join the Gathering: Be present at Leidsebosje on 9 November to show your support.
• Participate Actively: Engage in the symbolic ceremonies or simply stand in solidarity.
• Spread the Word: Share this important cause with friends, family, and your community. Every voice counts.
• Bring Instruments: Acoustic instruments are welcome to add to the ambiance (please keep the volume low).
• Prepare for the Weather: The gathering will proceed rain or shine, we are embraced by nature, so dress accordingly.
  Why Your Presence Matters

Our choices as consumers in the Netherlands have a direct impact on forests around the world. By raising awareness and making conscious decisions, we can reduce deforestation linked to the commodities we import.

By coming together in this meaningful ceremony, we can:

• Inspire Change: Encourage responsible consumption and support for deforestation-free products.
• Support Sustainable Practices: Advocate for sustainable sourcing and production methods.
• Protect Our Planet: Contribute to the global effort to preserve forests and combat climate change.

Let's join hearts for the Amazon and show our love for the planet we all share.

About Richard Torres

Richard Torres is a multidisciplinary performing artist, internationally recognized actor, and environmentalist originating from Amazonas, Peru. A master of dramatic arts, he graduated from the School of Dramatic Arts and the TUC at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. Richard has written and directed over 33 experimental theater productions focusing on human causes both in Peru and abroad.

As an ecologist and environmental leader, he is the director of the nature defense initiative Corazones Verdes Mundial, based in Amazonas, Peru. An eco-tourism entrepreneur and passionate advocate for the environment, Richard has been named by the press as the "Ambassador of Amazonas to the World." His life's greatest mission is the preservation of nature and the defense of trees.

Richard Torres has symbolically married 23 trees in 23 countries across Latin America, Central America, and Europe. He has also officiated ceremonies marrying people to trees in several countries. Through his projects, his primary objective is reforestation, and he has planted trees in numerous countries around the world.

"In recent weeks, more than 22,000 hectares of ancient and native forests have been burned. Through this ceremony, we hope to inspire love and respect for nature and encourage actions that protect our precious environment."

Richard Torres

Host or Publisher Planet Daniel