NOTE FROM TED: We’ve flagged this talk, which was filmed at a TEDx event, because it appears to fall outside TEDx’s curatorial guidelines. The speaker makes claims about ecology and plant biology that are not supported by legitimate scientific evidence. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf

Nearly 30 years ago, Alan Watson-Featherstone stood in the Universal Hall and in front of 300 people made a life-long commitment to restore the ancient Caledonian Forest.

He started with no resources, no knowledge, no access to land, no funds, but his passion and inspiration have carried him forward and now his charity Trees for Life not only helps nature to restore the Scottish Highland - it also helps people reconnect with their spirit, with hope and with the land.

Alan's talk also includes a wide range of his photography illustrating both the damage to the land and the difference his work makes.

Alan is the Founder and Visionary of Trees for Life since 1989, with overall responsibility for the charity and its strategic direction. His work includes a special focus on media and public relations, major donor fundraising and biodiversity research at Dundreggan Conservation Estate.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx