The Marina Alta Ecorestoration project, developed in Pego, has successfully completed the reforestation of 15.35 hectares of municipal public land. A total of 14,671 trees of seven native species, including mastic, Aleppo pine, and carob, were planted in eight plots affected by the fires of 2015 and 2022. The initiative, carried out in two phases during 2024 and 2025, was coordinated by Pego Viu and the Desert Leaves Foundation, with the collaboration of the Pego City Council and financial support from companies.
The primary objective was to offset the carbon footprint of collaborating companies, curb soil erosion, and restore biodiversity in an area where natural post-fire regeneration was insufficient. The intervention focused on the southwestern part of the municipality, utilizing old abandoned agricultural terraces to improve water retention. Beyond the ecological benefits, the project generated a direct social and economic impact, employing six local individuals for forest management tasks.
Among the private and institutional contributions, the Visit Benidorm foundation funded 1,868 trees to neutralize its international tourism carbon footprint. Employees from the RH Hotels chain also participated in one of the volunteer planting days. The design of the mixed plantations prioritized safety against future fires, positioning less flammable species in perimeter areas, and individual protectors were used to safeguard young saplings from wildlife and grazing.
To minimize risks, holm oaks and Pyrenean oaks were excluded due to the Xylella fastidiosa quarantine pest, and species like the European nettle tree and hawthorn were introduced in ravine areas. The long-term maintenance plan, extending over 30 to 40 years, includes support irrigation, replacement of failed saplings, formative pruning, and vegetation control for fire prevention.




