METHOD
Urban Forests uses the Miyawaki method to create urban forests. Miyawaki urban forests are fascinating complex ecosystems, in balance with today’s soil and climate conditions.
This technique works worldwide irrespective of soil and climatic conditions. Over 2000 forests were successfully created using this method. Doctor Akira Miyawaki, botanist and professor, is the inventor of the technic since 1980. He is a recipient of the 2006 Blue Planet Prize, which is the equivalent of a Nobel Prize in ecology.
Using the methodology, we create native urban forest ecosystems much quicker. The method takes its inspiration directly from processes and diversity in nature: 15 to 30 different species of trees and shrubs are planted together. This plant community works very well together, and is perfectly adapted to local weather conditions.
The habitat thus created will get more complex over time and attract much biodiversity.
Vegetation becomes much denser than conventional plantations, and it has the structure of a mature natural forest. It is a multi-storey structure, where different levels of vegetation appear. The forest thus structured delivers many benefits in the form of ecosystem services.
It would take about 200 years to let a forest recover on its own. With the Miyawaki method a similar result is achieved in 20 years.
A Miyawaki forest planted by Urban Forests grows each year by a minimum of 1 meter, without chemicals or synthetic fertilizers.
- Forests beautify the land and make the environment more enjoyable for everyone around.
- Forests improve air quality
- Vegetation decreases noise level and regulate temperature.
- Soil is better protected. Erosion and risk of flooding are effectively reduced.
- Forests provide great habitat for biodiversity.
- Forests store significant amount of CO² that no longer stay in the atmosphere.
