79 Nations, 2,500 Trees: A Tree Planting World Record
On 24 October 2026, history was made in Dietzenbach, Germany, as people from 79 nations came together to set a new world record for the most nationalities planting trees at a single event.
Organised by our partner Waldfreunde gGmbH, the Forest Connects Nations initiative brought together 685 participants who planted an incredible 2,500 trees in the Eulerwald forest.
We're proud to have played our part, and this is the story of how it came together.
79 Nations Smash the World Record
With the previous world record standing at 66 nations, the event brought together people from 79 nations, surpassing the existing record by 13.
Together, participants planted 1,750 sessile oaks and 750 hornbeams, with each person planting at least one tree.
Officially Verified
The achievement was officially verified by the Record Institute for Germany (RID), with record judge Meike Janz presenting Waldfreunde with the world record certificate.
Held on United Nations Day, the event was about more than breaking records. It brought together people from different cultures, backgrounds and generations, united by a shared commitment to the future of our forests.
A Tree Doesn't Ask Where You're From
For Waldfreunde, the day represented something much bigger than the numbers.
"We wanted to show that there is more that connects people than divides them, and the forest is a good place for that. A tree doesn't ask where you come from. It grows for all of us."
Jürgen Graf, Managing Director of Waldfreunde gGmbH
Sessile oaks can live for centuries, which means these trees will still be standing long after everyone who planted them. That's a pretty special legacy for one day's work.
Our Part in the Record
Forests are at the heart of what we do at Arbortec, so supporting initiatives that contribute to their long-term health is something we genuinely value.
Teaming Up with Först
Together, Arbortec and Först contributed over 500 trees towards the record-breaking event. Our trees came through the One Tree Per Trouser campaign on our chainsaw trousers, while Först supplied 10 trees for every chipper sold over two months. We also provided 200 pairs of gloves and 100 T-shirts to support participants on the day.
As the people behind the kit that arborists and foresters rely on every day, we know the future of our industry depends on two things: healthy forests and the next generation who will care for them. It's why we're committed to supporting the arborists of tomorrow.
Seeing children and families planting side by side with experienced volunteers was a reminder of exactly why days like this matter. We're incredibly proud to have played a part.
Hats Off to Waldfreunde
Huge congratulations to Waldfreunde gGmbH, the organisers, volunteers, supporters and all 685 participants who made this achievement possible.
We're grateful to be part of a partnership that supports the future of our forests while bringing people together from across the world.
79 nations. 685 people. 2,500 trees. One world record.
Find out more about Waldfreunde and how they bring people together to plant trees.