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Abstract(s)
In this work we will talk about what Paul Hawken described as, “a gift to a despairing world, a way to change the Earth in practical, restorative, and substantive ways, a simple act that creates beauty and enchantment: a mini-forest” (in the foreword Lewis, H., 2022,p.xi).
When considering how to combat climate change, biodiversity and soil health are two aspects to take into account. However, on the one hand, it is better to make efforts to maintain existing forests than to plant new ones. On the other hand, in many parts of the world, old forests have disappeared, and the space for planting new forests is sometimes very limited (Charkow, 2022).
Mini forests, also known as micro-forests or urban forests, are compact green spaces composed of a variety of trees, shrubs, plants, and native vegetation. This concept of high-density, layered planting with native species in very limited spaces is called the "Miyawaki forest."
Despite their diminutive size, mini forests play a vital role in promoting urban,sustainability (Egerer and Suda, 2023). By sequestering carbon dioxide and serving as natural air filters, they contribute significantly to mitigating climate change and improving air quality. Moreover, these green pockets regulate local climates, reduce ambient temperatures, and mitigate the urban heat island effect. The environmental benefits extend to public health and well-being, with mini forests offering spaces for recreation, stress reduction, and community engagement with nature.
These pocket forests have an active role in surrounding society in different aspects. They promote biodiversity, regulate the local climate by reducing ambient temperature, minimizing the heat island effect in urban areas, and by absorbing rainwater, contribute to public health, and can improve people's emotional and mental well-being, reduce stress, and promote mental health. They also serve as an important educational tool, providing opportunities for environmental awareness and community connection with nature (Fratini, 2022).
Recognizing the value of green spaces, the Eco Schools Council of the School of Social Communication, in collaboration with Biodiversity Islands and sponsored by NOESIS, spearheaded the establishment of a mini forest adjacent to Lisbon's bustling 2nd Circular Road. In addition to the previously mentioned advantages, this green corridor also aims to reduce noise pollution. In a space of 50m2, 150 trees and shrubs were planted, with 24 species being the same as those already existing in the surrounding area, such as the olive, ash, and holm oak. Other herbaceous species were also planted to help prepare the soil. The strawberry tree, lavender, and wild strawberry are some examples.
On November 25, 2023, ESCS hosted an activity involving students, teachers, and a Noesis team-building event that also welcomed several families, including young children as young as 2 years old. This initiative aimed to raise awareness, particularly among the younger generations.
Regarding the urban forest planted approximately 5 months ago (between November 25th and April 26th), it has shown significant growth, as evidenced by provided photographs. It is estimated that 10 years will be necessary to demonstrate its effectiveness in reducing noise pollution, acting as a natural barrier to minimize the sound impact of the second circular. Moreover, an increase in local fauna and flora diversity has been noted, indicating successful biodiversity promotion efforts. Acknowledgments - This work was funded by Noesis and Ilhas da Biodiversidade.
REFERENCES
Charkow, M. (2022) Forests for the future. The Arboricultural Association (ARB MAGAZINE)| Issue 197, Summer 2022, , 29-33. Retrieved February, 11, 2024 from https://www.avtree.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ARBMagazine197-pp29-33-Forests-of-the-future.pdf
Egerer, M., & Suda, M. (2023). Designing “Tiny Forests” as a lesson for transdisciplinary urban ecology learning. Urban Ecosystems, 26:1331–1339
Fratini, F. (2022). Microforeste eco-pedagogiche Una risposta green, locale e multistakeholder alle sfide climatiche e non. Contesti. Città, territori, progetti, (2), 113-128.
Lewis, H. (2022) Mini-Forest Revolution - Using the Miyawaki Method to Rapidly Rewild the World. Chelsea Green Publishing, Longon, UK.
Description
Keywords
Pocket ecosystems Sustainability Miyawaki method Urban green spaces Biodiversity Environmental impact Community engagement
Citation
Silvestre, C., David, A., Ziesmann, L., Ferreira, P., Serra, R. & Gordo, V. (2024, apr, 26-28) Sustainable nooks: Unveiling the potential of pocket ecosystems. Paper presented at “1st International Conference of FEE EcoCampus “Getting Higher Level Education Climate Ready”, Escola Superior de Educação de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
Publisher
FEE EcoCampus International Conference
ABAAE - Associação Bandeira Azul de Ambiente e Educação
ABAAE - Associação Bandeira Azul de Ambiente e Educação