MetLifeLegacyTrees
We pledge to plant a tree in honor of each loved one for whom MetLife has paid a Group Life Insurance benefit1. While serving as a living memorial for our insureds, these trees will also fight deforestation, protect communities vulnerable to natural disaster, and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world for all.
In 2022, MetLife is planting trees in the Econfina Creek and Chipola River Water Management Areas, nestled in the Florida panhandle. In addition to providing drinking water for nearly 175,000 residents, these areas are also home to wildlife, including the gopher tortoise, bobwhite quail, Sherman’s fox squirrel, deer, turkey, and more.
In 2018, Hurricane Michael carved a path through this area, leaving thousands of acres of destroyed forest cover in its wake. This planting project is focused on restoring the longleaf pine and slash pine trees that are native to the area. The trees will improve the function of the watersheds, helping to filter pollutants, preserve water quality, and benefit aquatic species. They will also provide much-needed habitat for area wildlife that rely on the forest to survive2.
Trees provide clean air, shade cover and habitat for animals, while reducing erosion and flooding in communities.
Our Tree Planting Partners
MetLife partners with the Arbor Day Foundation and their network of local tree planting partners to implement our tree planting program.
The Arbor Day Foundation has been inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees since 1972. And that simple mission has had a global impact. The Foundation has grown over the last 50 years to become the largest member nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. And in that time, the Foundation has worked with members, supporters, and a strong network of partners to plant and distribute nearly 500 million trees worldwide.
More information is available at arborday.org.
Environmental Statistics Per Tree*
Avoided Water Runoff (In gallons):
* Projected 40-year estimates based on a small representative species in this area, configured by Arbor Day Foundation using i-Tree Tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the tree planting occur?
The trees are planted at the best suitable planting time for the region, within a given calendar year.
How are the trees protected and maintained?
The Arbor Day Foundation thoroughly vets planting partners and project teams to ensure that trees are responsibly planted and maintained throughout the entire project process. While Mother Nature can be difficult to predict, you can rest easy knowing that the Arbor Day Foundation and its partners strive to create healthy, thriving forests.
How many trees will MetLife plant as part of this program?
We are planting one tree for each deceased insured individual of MetLife Group Benefits life insurance. There is no limit on how many trees we will plant.
What types and sizes of trees are planted?
Our planting partners select and plant trees native to the specific area. Trees planted through this initiative are 6 – 10 inch seedlings.
Who plants the trees?
All plantings are completed by contracted professional tree planters and are overseen and assessed by foresters on the grounds.
Can I visit the tree?
You are welcome to visit the forest area, if desired. While there is a tree planted for every insureds, there are not plaques or markers on the trees to commemorate that they are MetLife trees. We encourage you to look at the photos and stories shared on this site instead.
Can I opt out of this program or request that my tree be planted elsewhere?
No, there is no option to opt out or make special requests related to the trees. A tree will be planted for every insured individual for whom MetLife has paid a Group Life Insurance benefit. There is no cost to the beneficiary or policyholder.
Does this program apply to other MetLife insurance products?
No, the MetLife Legacy TreesTM program only applies to Group Life Insurance insureds.
The Arbor Day Foundation
To learn more contact the Arbor Day Foundation.
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1 Excludes life insurance used to finance benefit liabilities including but not limited to Corporate Owned Life Insurance, Company Owned Life Insurance, and Bank Owned Life Insurance.
2 Source: Arbor Day Foundation.