The Associated Press reports that Haitian artist and philanthropist Wyclef Jean and The Timberland Co. are teaming up to sell eco-friendly footwear to support the reforestation of the singer’s native Haiti. Jean, who achieved fame with The Fugees before going solo, collaborated with the New Hampshire-based footwear and apparel company on a 16-boot collection going on sale in November.
Timberland, which also has a clothing division, will sell T-shirts designed by Haitian children as well as a new line of organic shirts and hats will be sold at Jean’s concerts, with a percentage of the profits going to Jean’s Yelé Haiti foundation.
In an interview, Jean said he hopes the partnership will inspire children and put a new face on his homeland. The partnership is part of Timberland’s Earthkeepers program, which promotes environmental and social activism.
Deforestation is acknowledged as the most serious problem facing Haiti. With less than 5% of Haiti’s land covered in forests, the nation is facing a dire environmental future. As a result of the deforestation, rainfall levels have decreased, topsoil has eroded substantially, and areas of the country have become desert-like. All proposals for the improvement of Haiti’s economic situation point to the urgent need for reforestation.
To see the orriginal report go to http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5gt3K_BuqLa3OS0xEEVdVwCNiOm_Q
Photo of Haiti’s deforested hills by Nathan McCLintock at http://www.piphaiti.org/overview_of_haiti2.html
Great endeavour! would be even better if this project was turned into a sustainable social entreprise instead of a one-time campaign. what ppl need are long-term solutions that can grow over time and yield more returns for Haiti. Any reforestation efforts demand long-term commitment. while this project will bring some short term satisfaciton, it might set up expectations that can’t be met. at the same time, we all have to start somewhere. kudos to wyclef for putting his star power to find solutions to a worthwhile and urgent issue
By: Tdot_gyal on October 1, 2009
at 10:36 pm