Experience What the People of Pärnu Take for Granted

Although the 10 Million Trees Foundation and the Ördögkatlan Festival Association have already planted the very first saplings of the Katlan Forest Project in Beremend, the fundraising and tree planting will continue throughout the autumn. And as one of the campaign’s enthusiastic ambassadors, I’d like to share a few reflections inspired by what I recently saw and learned from the people of Estonia. My photos and impressions come from a small seaside resort town: Pärnu.

I don’t think I’ve visited many places where old oak-tree avenues frame the streets. That alone would be remarkable – but here, the trees are truly ancient. From what I could tell, the average age of the larger trees in the city easily starts at 80–100 years.

What struck me most, though, was how effortlessly locals seem to live in harmony with nature. Whether in the countryside or in town, in public parks or national ones, they respect and value it deeply. And most uniquely: in Pärnu, the built environment adapts to the trees – not the other way around.

I saw fences, sheds, and even parking lots deliberately designed around their “green heritage”, leaving the trees untouched. When I asked locals about it, their response was simple: for them, this is natural. It takes attention and care, of course – but they think twice before cutting, pruning, or interfering in any way, almost as if the trees enjoyed the status of cultural monuments.

The result? Absolutely breathtaking... At least, I could get used to it.

But in today’s increasingly unpredictable climate and environmental conditions, the chances of a tree reaching such an ancient age are far slimmer. Especially if planted alone, pruned without reason, or left unwatered...

So if you can, please support the 10 Million Trees Foundation and join their Volunteer Watering program or their inspiring Miyawaki Forest projects: helping ensure that future generations can experience what the people of Pärnu take for granted.