Mokugift has released a new iPhone application that enables owners of an Apple handset to bring their environmental contribution. By purchasing this $0.99 app, Mokugift will have one of its 12 internationally-recognized tree planting partners planting a real tree.

Trees won't just be planted anywhere. According to Mokugift, efforts are focused on  places fighting deforestation, such as Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Burundi, Senegal, Zambia, India, Philippines, and Haiti. Studies have shown that tree planting in tropical regions is the most beneficial in the fight against global warming.

“If every iPhone owner planted one tree, the environmental impact would be equivalent to taking 500,000 cars off the road,” Hans Chung of Mokugift says. “People spent $8,000 dollars on that frivolous 'I Am Rich' app,” Chung adds, “That inspired us. We knew we needed to develop something meaningful.”

Come to think of it, with “A Real Tree” out there, the developers of “I Am Rich” should really just cash in and pull their app. As for those who continue to download it, some may see them as the ones who said “no” to 8000 trees.

“A Real Tree works with organizations that provide materials and education to local communities to plant trees in an ecologically-beneficial manner,” Mokugift emphasizes. “Local communities learn how to plant trees while avoiding toxic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Local communities plant trees that produce nutritious fruits and crops that they can live off and make a living on. By enriching their land and their lives, these communities build a foundation that they can proudly pass on to future generations. Pride in their community gives them something that logging companies can't compete with.”

According to the app's makers, Real Tree also has a few hidden surprises. Discover how to get your bird to fly or how to get the flowers to drift in the breeze, while with every update (free) new elements will be added.

Mokugift lists four main reasons why “A Real Tree” should make a good acquisition, one of which we can't help mentioning - “Inspiration for others to plant a tree.” Think about it! There have to be at least two people you know that are easily impressed by deeds like these. Best of all, they might just have friends of their own. Whether or not you choose to get the app, share an impression in the comments.

Download A Real Tree via iTunes App Store ($0.99)