The Biodiversity Tree of Acarbio, created for this Christmas 2024 and located within the ancient Cloister of the former Capuchin Convent dating back to the 13th century (now Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel), was designed to represent the terraced landscape of the Amalfi Coast. The decorations symbolize the sea, land, and sky, made entirely from recycled materials and what nature offers during this time of year. This special Christmas tree also aims to raise awareness among the visitors of the historic hotel and the ancient cloister about the importance of environmental conservation and local biodiversity.
This initiative marks also a meaningful collaboration between the non-profit association Acarbio and the Anantara hotel chain. For over 15 years, Acarbio has worked to revitalize the Amalfi Coast’s inland areas, which face challenges like depopulation, demographic desertification, and marginalization from the booming coastal tourism.
Acarbio extends its gratitude to Anantara for spotlighting their mission through the Dollars for Deeds program. This partnership underscores Anantara’s leadership not just in luxury hospitality but also as a pioneer in responsible tourism. Their approach views guests not merely as contributors to local economies but as active participants in preserving the territory’s unique historical and social identity.
The tree’s base featured a fishing net from Menaica anchovies, sourced from the nearby Cilento coast. The tree celebrates the rich diversity of the Amalfi Coast’s terraced landscape:
- Sea: Represented by handcrafted Caretta caretta sea turtles, a tribute to the volunteers who protected two turtle nests on Maiori Beach this summer, along with small fish symbolizing the marine life of the Amalfi waters.
- Land: Featuring red fabric tomatoes symbolizing the Fiascone heirloom tomato, also known as “Re Umberto” revived by Acarbio after years of neglect. Dried lemons and oranges evoke the colors and aromas of IGP-certified Amalfi citrus, paying homage to the “flying farmers” who maintain the terraces. Recycled cork creates clusters of grapes, while crochet olives add a handmade touch.
- Sky: A majestic peregrine falcon, crafted from seeds and legumes, perches among the branches, surrounded by colorful birds, owls, and stars.
Messages of peace, love, and solidarity, written by international volunteers on slices of wood, can be found nestled among the tree’s decorations, all celebrating the theme of biodiversity. This extraordinary initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation.