Trees are not forests
The Miyawaki method of planting forests is 'easy,' fast and dependable. Imagine having a forest in your backyard! The minimal space needed is only 6 parking spaces, so this is truly possible. This is a method that has been used throughout the world in many different environments. It not only brings forests back quickly (within three years it is self-sustaining) but it restores lost biodiversity as well.
Christian Science Monitor, September 2023
A Japanese method of planting fast-growing native forests is spreading worldwide. First introduced in the 1970s, Miyawaki forests are dense, multi-layered plantations that aim to rapidly re-create the old growth forest of a given area. These forests not only serve as an engine for carbon sequestration and cooling, but also promote biodiversity by supporting local insects, which are crucial to the ecosystem. What is more, Miyawaki forests are designed to become self-sufficient two to three years after planting.
Hundreds of Miyawaki forests have been created around the world in recent years, and Massachusetts saw its first two Miyawaki forests take root in 2021 and 2022. The forests, planted by more than 100 local residents, are a way to educate and engage the community on ecological restoration, says Maya Dutta, the project manager for the creation of the two forests. A software developer-turned-environmental activist, Maya used to live in fear and avoidance of environmental issues. But working on projects like the Miyawaki forests, she says, offers her a sense of "grounded hope."
Over the Christian Science Monitor’s 110-year history, we’ve built a legacy of high-quality, distinctive journalism because we recognize that news is more than facts. It’s the story of how we are each trying to make our homes, communities, and nations better. What matters are the values and ideals that drive us, not just the who, what, when, and where of the news.
Hundreds of Miyawaki forests have been created around the world in recent years, and Massachusetts saw its first two Miyawaki forests take root in 2021 and 2022. The forests, planted by more than 100 local residents, are a way to educate and engage the community on ecological restoration, says Maya Dutta, the project manager for the creation of the two forests. A software developer-turned-environmental activist, Maya used to live in fear and avoidance of environmental issues. But working on projects like the Miyawaki forests, she says, offers her a sense of "grounded hope."
Over the Christian Science Monitor’s 110-year history, we’ve built a legacy of high-quality, distinctive journalism because we recognize that news is more than facts. It’s the story of how we are each trying to make our homes, communities, and nations better. What matters are the values and ideals that drive us, not just the who, what, when, and where of the news.
This is doable!
We Can Make a Sponge City!
Creating healthy soil and ensuring its continued health will increase that soil's capacity to hold more water, over time. Reducing the risk of drought, flood and fire.
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65% of our water comes fromthe Biotic Pump |