Hyatt, MINA join hands for tree planting on Earth Day

Hyatt Regency Saipan, through its corporate responsibility platform Hyatt Thrive, and Mariana Islands Nature Alliance will partner up with guests, associates, and the community to preserve the environment on Earth Day this coming April 22.

Hyatt and MINA will aid in the nurturing of the Laolao Bay watershed area, one of the three priority watersheds in the CNMI, with tree planting activities.

“Taking part in this initiative will confirm our hotel’s support for the long-term conservation of the local environment,” Hyatt general manager Nick Nishikawa said.

Hyatt and MINA said that planting trees is essential for the conservation of the local environment.

“Trees are one of many important resources that hold the island’s ecosystem together. Without trees, other fragile natural resources such as water, wildlife and living organisms would be affected,” said CNMI state forester Victor Deleon Guerrero.

Guerrero also said that trees filter pollution from the air, help recycle water, create shade, make homes for animals, and provide food for humans and wildlife and much more.

“Our forests are extremely important in helping maintain good water quality and preventing soil and nutrients from washing into our lagoon. This helps our reefs healthy and alive,” he said.

Guerrero noted that native trees and plants have adapted to the limestone forest ecosystem and are able to tolerate harsh conditions such as droughts and floods and have a symbiotic relationship with other local tree species.

Anyone who wants to join the tree planting is required to register. Forms are available at Hyatt’s Human Resource office. It is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.

Light meal bags will be provided, together with gloves and trees for planting. Volunteers are also advised to wear comfortable trekking and walking shoes appropriate for outdoor activity.

Hyatt and MINA are also advising the public to apply insect repellant and sunblock for skin protection.

Every April, Hyatt hotels around the world confirm their commitment to a higher purpose in life by giving back something to their communities.

Hyatt and MINA would like to thank their event partners, the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality, Laolao Bay Watershed Pride Campaign, and CNMI Forestry for making the upcoming event possible.