Table tennis players plant trees to help SafashahrCEFR B2
1 Jan 2026
Adapted from Guest Contributor, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Igor Rodrigues, Unsplash
Safashahr faces a worsening water crisis and growing environmental fragility in public and rural areas. Two years ago the head of the table tennis association of Khorrambid County set out not only to develop the sport and build basic infrastructure, but also to use the club as a catalyst for local environmental action.
The association has run several volunteer initiatives that link table tennis with local conservation. Activities have ranged from “plastic‑free hall” campaigns in training venues to building small water troughs for wildlife. The most recent event, held in the Nobekuh area near the village of Dehbid and organised with the Department of Natural Resources, attracted more than 200 residents.
Those participants planted 400 drought‑resistant trees, mainly wild almond and arjan, species selected for their ability to survive the region’s harsh, low‑water conditions. The atmosphere was both joyful and emotional: families said they felt they were giving something back to the land, and many children planted a tree for the first time.
Organisers say the work is changing how young players view the local landscape and strengthens community ties. Several people proposed creating a small community forest over coming years. The association intends to continue the activities and plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with the local Department of Environment to formalise the joint actions.
Difficult words
- worsen — become more severe or worse over timeworsening
- fragility — state of being weak or easily damaged
- infrastructure — basic facilities and services for a community
- catalyst — something that causes change or action
- conservation — protection and careful use of natural resources
- trough — long open container providing water for animalstroughs
- formalise — make something official by agreement
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could planting drought-resistant trees help Safashahr cope with its water crisis? Give reasons from the article or your experience.
- What obstacles might the association face when they try to formalise actions with the Department of Environment?
- Would you support a local sports club leading environmental projects in your area? Why or why not?
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