In this episode of Exec Exchange, host Piers Clark interviews Amos Saati from Freetown, Sierra Leone, about the innovative 'Freetown Tree Town' project. Created to combat climate risks and water shortages caused by deforestation, the initiative began in 2020 with the planting of 250,000 trees and has now expanded to 1.2 million trees. Amos discusses the impact of these efforts on reducing floods, landslides, and extreme heat, as well as on enhancing water storage and providing economic benefits to local communities. By involving the community directly and employing them to protect and track tree growth, the project not only aims to enter the carbon market but also ensures sustainable development and resource management.

00:00 Introduction to the Exec Exchange Podcast

00:27 Meet Amos Saati: From Advisor to Green Innovator

01:06 Understanding Sierra Leone and Freetown

02:23 The Birth of 'Freetown Tree Town' Initiative

02:47 Challenges and Solutions in Tree Planting

04:35 Community Involvement and Economic Benefits

05:22 Tracking and Technology in Tree Planting

08:17 Impact and Future of 'Freetown Tree Town'

11:38 Final Thoughts and Advice for Future Generations