EcoTree’s nature-based model: Turning tree ownership into tangible impact

This article is based on our podcast episode released on the 19th of May 2025. [Listen to the full episode here.]

Planting the future: How EcoTree makes nature restoration a tangible investment

When tree planting gets dismissed as greenwashing, and biodiversity is reduced to a CSR bullet point, how do you build a business around real, measurable impact? For Danish-French company EcoTree, the answer lies in radical transparency, long-term thinking, and a surprisingly simple concept: own a tree, share its value, protect its ecosystem.

In the latest Foresting Tomorrow special, we spoke with Louise Frederikke Kofoed-Dam (Head of Communication & B2B Marketing) and Kristoffer Sparre (Head of Business & Nature Development, Northern Europe) about EcoTree’s origins, challenges, and how they’re helping businesses move from pledges to action.

A micro-investment in the forest of tomorrow

Founded in 2014, EcoTree has since planted or sustainably managed over 1.8 million trees across Europe. Their approach? Democratising forestry by turning it into a micro-investment.

“Everyone can contribute in their own way—with one tree or thousands. And in return, they share the value of the timber, selectively harvested over 100 years,” explains Kristoffer.

Inspired by Denmark’s bottle recycling system, the model creates a direct financial link between nature restoration and long-term value creation. Importantly, it’s not about clear-cutting or short-term profits. EcoTree promotes close-to-nature forestry, balancing timber production with ecosystem restoration and biodiversity.

From biodiversity baselines to business KPIs

EcoTree’s projects span France, Denmark, Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands. Each new site begins with a rigorous assessment: soil samples, wildlife inventories, and even insect and bird population counts. This data forms the baseline for tracking ecosystem improvements.

“Many of our sites start from scratch—former agricultural lands with no insects or wildlife due to pesticide use. Restoring those ecosystems is slow but essential,” says Louise.

With over 500 active projects, EcoTree provides detailed annual reports for clients, tracking everything from biodiversity indicators to carbon sequestration. Their methodology is audited every five years by Bureau Veritas, ensuring credibility in a market often plagued by vague claims.

Nature-based solutions with real-world challenges

Managing forests sounds romantic, but Kristoffer is quick to highlight the gritty realities: land sourcing is their biggest challenge. Complex regulations, rising land prices, and varying ownership laws across Europe complicate acquisitions.

“In Denmark, state subsidies have driven land prices up. In France, even the highest bid doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the land. It’s a constant negotiation,” he notes.

Yet EcoTree’s model thrives on persistence. By securing land upfront and assuming the financial risk of planting before selling trees, they ensure that projects start with genuine commitment—not just promises.

Transparency as a competitive edge

At the heart of EcoTree’s success is a commitment to honesty, simplicity, optimism, and boldness. Every tree is geo-tagged. Growth projections are modelled using tried-and-tested forestry data. Clients receive tailored communication kits to ensure accurate, factual messaging.

“If you planted 120 trees, that’s what you communicate. No fluff, no inflated claims. It’s better for everyone,” Louise emphasises.

While EcoTree does offer carbon credits, they advocate for a “reduce first, offset responsibly” approach. Their partnerships focus on companies willing to align long-term ESG goals with tangible, trackable actions.

Looking ahead: Scaling impact, not just promises

With over 2,000 business partners and growing momentum from EU regulations like the CSRD and Nature Restoration Law, EcoTree sees a clear path forward.

“The CSRD could drive billions into nature restoration if it stays on track. That would accelerate everything—from forest cover in Denmark to new biodiversity projects across Europe,” says Kristoffer.

For EcoTree, it’s not about planting trees faster. It’s about building ecosystems that last for a century and beyond, providing both environmental and economic value.

“We’re not here for quick wins. We’re here to build forests that your grandchildren’s grandchildren will walk through,” Louise concludes.