In response to the Buddha's Light International Association World Headquarters (BLIA World Headquarters) global initiative "T-EARTH Forest Community Project," aimed at promoting zero carbon emissions, BLIA Vancouver combined it with the "Global Veg-revival Virtual Community Run (VEGRUN)." On September 21, BLIA Vancouver headed to Richmond’s Riverfront Park, planting a tree seedling for every 20 kilometers run, totaling 250 seedlings. Led by Vancouver Fo Guang Shan Abbess Venerable Chueh Chu, 35 members of Fo Guang Shan and student representatives from local schools worked tirelessly for three hours to transform barren land into greenery, contributing to reforestation and carbon reduction, while protecting the Earth.
Venerable Chueh Chu expressed that this tree-planting initiative is tied to this year’s "Global Veg-revival Virtual Community Run (VEGRUN)." Working alongside a local elementary school, the goal is to promote a "Three Acts of Goodness Campus" while advancing community greening efforts, balancing the ecological environment, and striving toward global zero carbon targets. She hopes that all of humanity can pay more attention to climate change and the sustainable development of the Earth, working together to green the environment, mitigate global warming, and protect the planet.
President of BLIA Vancouver Johnny Ng stated that environmental protection and energy conservation have long been key missions of BLIA. This tree-planting event allows the organization to contribute further to environmental conservation. He believes that through collective efforts, the community’s environment will become increasingly beautiful, and the air will be purer.
Christian Walli, a representative from Tree Canada, expressed his gratitude towards 18 years of collaboration with BLIA as he prepares for retirement this year. He commended the active participation of Fo Guang members in greening and reforestation efforts, noting that each additional tree contributes to creating fresh air and reducing carbon pollution, thus benefiting ecological balance. President Johnny presented Walli with a gift in appreciation of his support over the years.
Fo Guang friend Botao Xie brought 11 children from the school district to participate, highlighting their love for jogging. They learned about the tree-planting event at Fo Guang Shan and found it meaningful and worth promoting, as it not only fosters health but also safeguards the Earth.
Notably, Fo Guang member Shengli Yang set a new record by planting 21 trees in one go. The city also sent officials to provide guidance on planting. With beautiful weather, families participated enthusiastically, witnessing the seedlings standing tall and feeling a sense of joy. Through this meaningful weekend activity, they not only enjoyed themselves but also instilled in the children the rightful view of "coexistence and co-prosperity" with the Earth.