Back to newsBack to news  |  25th March 2025

When it comes to sustainability, we believe in rolling up our sleeves and making a real difference. That’s why we’ve joined forces with veritree to help restore vital mangrove forests along East Africa’s coastlines. This isn’t just about planting trees—it’s about rebuilding ecosystems that protect communities, provide livelihoods, and create healthier environments where both nature and people can thrive.

Mangroves play a crucial role in protecting coastal communities, stabilising shorelines, and providing vital ecosystems for marine life. However, these forests have been disappearing at an alarming rate due to urbanisation, overharvesting, and a lack of effective conservation strategies. Through our partnership with veritree, Skytrail is helping to restore these essential ecosystems, improving both environmental and social conditions for local communities.

Why mangroves matter

The coastal communities in East Africa depend on mangroves for their livelihoods. These forests provide a natural defence against storm surges and coastal erosion, while also serving as breeding grounds for fish and other marine species that sustain local fisheries. However, widespread deforestation has left many of these areas vulnerable, impacting both biodiversity and the economic stability of the people who rely on them.

Veritree’s project aims to reverse this trend by restoring mangrove forests, which will not only enhance biodiversity but also create sustainable income streams for local communities. By participating in this initiative, Skytrail is supporting the planting of tens of thousands of trees per year, contributing to long-term environmental recovery and social development.

Technology-driven restoration

One of the key strengths of veritree’s approach is its use of innovative technology to ensure transparency and effectiveness. By leveraging LiDAR scanning and satellite imaging, veritree can monitor reforestation efforts in real time, tracking carbon sequestration and measuring the impact of restored mangrove areas.

In addition to environmental restoration, veritree’s work also focuses on social impact. The project in Tanzania, for example, has already provided stable income opportunities and improved food security for local workers. Through social surveys conducted via the veritree app, the team has been able to track key community needs such as access to clean water and healthcare, ensuring that restoration efforts go beyond tree planting to create meaningful, lasting change.

Skytrail’s commitment to sustainability

All of us at Skytrail are committed to playing an active role in addressing environmental challenges. By planting 48,000 trees per year in collaboration with veritree, we are making a tangible contribution to global restoration efforts. These trees will help absorb carbon dioxide, restore critical ecosystems, and support the livelihoods of people who depend on healthy forests.

This initiative is part of our broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) promise. As a company, we are focused on minimising our carbon footprint, reducing waste, and supporting projects that have a real, measurable impact.

Real change, not greenwashing

Neil Conley, managing director at Skytrail, emphasises the company’s approach to sustainability:

“We’re not interested in greenwashing. At Skytrail, we want to be part of real change. Partnering with veritree allows us to actively support projects that benefit both the environment and the people who depend on it. Our commitment to planting 48,000 trees per year isn’t just about offsetting carbon – it’s about restoring ecosystems, strengthening communities, and ensuring a more sustainable future.”

David Luba, co-founder & head of partnerships at veritree, echos these sentiments:

“At veritree, we know that meaningful restoration is only possible through strong partnerships committed to transparency in sustainability initiatives. We are proud to partner with Skytrail, who are planting 48,000 mangroves in Kenya, setting a powerful example of how businesses can drive real, lasting impact. Together, we’re restoring critical ecosystems, supporting local communities, and building a more resilient future.”

Looking ahead

As our partnership with veritree grows, we look forward to sharing progress updates on our reforestation efforts. Skytrail customers are able to track the impact of our contributions in real time on our ESG page, reinforcing our commitment to transparency and accountability.

Mangrove restoration is just one step in our journey towards a more sustainable future. By supporting projects that integrate environmental and social benefits, we hope to make a lasting difference – not only for the planet but for the people who call these landscapes home.