This story happens in Georgia a few month ago. And it all about creativity and power of crowdfunding!
One billionner likes to collect rare old trees for his personal garden. He buy them, uproot, and transport to his own residence. It should be mentioned, that mainly old with history were chosen to be transferred.
Few month ago, agency of the ministry of finance of Georgia launched auction for the Eucalyptus, that located at “Mtsvane Kontskhi” settlement, Adjara, Georgia. It is height -25-27 meters, and have more than century history. Group of activist were against such rude and unusual sell of old tree, that can cause damage. But auction starts.
And here is my favorite part.
People could complain, protest or try to suit against such harmfull activity. But because of political reasons, it was the risk, that no one reacts to this and just say that everything is formally legal, i.e. tree can be removed.
So activists found more creative way to resist - they registrate at the auction for Eucalyptus and start biding:) It was a last chance to save tree.
Start price was 7000 Georgian lari (near 2868 US dollars). They were bidding for a long time and won auction! End price was 20200 Georgian lari (near 8200 US dollars).
But it was only part of work. If final winner do not pay the end price for the Eucalyptus, tree still could go to the billionner.
So activists ask people to help and start crowdfunding campaign to save tree.
It was a limited time to pay for tree. Activist push their campaign through TV, local media and Facebook. They opened PayPal account to give an opportunity receive money abroad country.
And again, they did it. Almost 1500 people contribute required sum. It was ordinary people, who want to help.
As a conclusion.
This is simple story, that shows how creativity and social support can fight agains money and power. All activist were united by main idea - save tree from unreasonable risk and harm. Such synergy were important in this competition.
It shows us how strong and powerful civil society are!
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