How do you bring back forests without planting a single tree?

In his 17 years in Niger, world-renowned agronomist Tony Rinaudo (from Myrtleford, Victoria) discovered an embarrassingly simple and affordable method of regreening land by reviving damaged trees rather than planting new ones. It’s a technique that not only alleviates poverty and soaks up carbon, but also costs almost 36 times less than planting trees from scratch.

This is not some green fantasy. Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) has, from small beginnings, already regreened more than 18 million hectares in 27 countries, reduced our carbon footprint and transformed millions of lives and livelihoods.

Tony shares his insights and inspiring life story in his autobiography The Forest Underground: Hope for a Planet in Crisis published by ISCAST–Christians in Science and Technology.

For his influential contributions, Tony has received the Right Livelihood Award and was appointed as a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia. He is now the Principal Climate Action Advisor with World Vision Australia.

Join Tony to launch his new book, underneath the awe-inspiring giant Earth artwork Gaia by Luke Jerram. The event will consist of a talk, reading, Q&A, book signing, and an informal optional meal together with Tony at a local restaurant.

This event is hosted by ISCAST–Christians in Science and Technology and St Paul's Cathedral.

Program

6:30 PM — Welcome & Introductions (St Paul's, ISCAST, and Tim Costello)

6:45 PM — Talk & reading from Tony

7:30 PM — Q&A

7:45 PM — Book Signing/Meet & Greet

8:30 PM — Formal event finishes, move to local restaurant for dinner

Dinner

The dinner afterwards will be at Young & Jackson and is pay your own way.

If you are interested in joining us for dinner, please email contact@iscast.org expressing your interest. This will allow us and the restaurant to prepare for the number of guests.