Final answer:
The Green Belt Movement tree planting initiative was established in Kenya, Africa by Wangari Maathai in 1977, focusing on tree planting, conservation, and women's rights, and has planted over 51 million trees.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Green Belt Movement tree planting initiative was established in Kenya, Africa. It was founded in 1977 by Wangari Maathai, an environmentalist and noble peace laureate who believed in sustainable development, democracy, and peace. The movement was conceptualized as an environmental non-governmental organization focused on tree planting, conservation, and women's rights. By encouraging women to plant trees, the movement aimed to address the challenges of deforestation, soil erosion, and lack of rain. Kenya's experience with the Green Belt Movement inspired other countries and paralleled with tree planting and green space programs around the world, such as the development of sustainable village production systems based on forests and agroforestry, like those promoted by Shri Chand Prasad Bhatt in India.
The impact of the Green Belt Movement in Kenya is well-recognized internationally, and it has become a powerful symbol of grassroots environmental activism. The movement has planted over 51 million trees and has sparked similar initiatives across the globe, contributing greatly to environmental conservation and the empowerment of women and communities.