Johannes zu Eltz grew up on a farm surrounded by fields, lakes and forests in southern Germany, where his early years were deeply rooted in nature. Surrounded by trees, animals, and the rhythms of rural life, he developed a lifelong connection to the land. From a young age, he spent his holidays planting trees, tending fields, and learning the principles of regenerative agriculture,laying the foundation for his future vision.
After studying physics in Munich, Johannes embarked on an international career that took him from South Africa to the United States and across Europe. Rising to senior executive roles in the corporate world. He gained not only global experience but also a broader understanding of the environmental challenges facing our planet. Traveling frequently and living in major cities, he witnessed firsthand the growing effects of climate change, from extreme weather to environmental degradation.
Driven by a growing sense of urgency, Johannes chose to step away from his corporate path to take action. He significantly reduced air travel to lower his own carbon footprint and began channeling his energy into restoring nature through afforestation, turning CO₂ into O₂ by planting native trees with long life expectancy.
With Forest4Future, Johannes brings together his expertise, values, and life experience to create lasting impact. His vision is to regenerate forests with native deciduous trees, restore biodiversity, and build a healthier, more resilient planet. Beyond planting trees, he also aims to create a space where young people can reconnect with nature, learn about sustainability, and take part in reforestation efforts that matter. Forest4Future is both a return to his roots and a forward-looking mission, to protect the Earth for future generations, one tree at a time.