Miyawaki Plantation Method

• 20 Jun 2023

Why in News?

Prime Minister of India in his recent episode of 'Mann ki Baat', discussed the concept of Miyawaki plantation. He shed light on the Japanese technique of establishing dense urban forests in limited spaces.

• He also mentioned the inspiring story of Raafi Ramnath, a teacher from Kerala, who utilized the Miyawaki method to convert a barren piece of land into a miniature forest named Vidyavanam.

What is the Miyawaki Plantation Method?

• About:
  • It was named after Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, this method involves planting two to four different types of indigenous trees within every square metre.
  • The methodology was developed in the 1970s, with the basic objective to densify green cover within a small parcel of land.
  • In this method, the trees become self-sustaining and they grow to their full length within three years.
    • The plants used in the Miyawaki method are mostly self-sustaining and don’t require regular maintenance like manuring and watering.
• Significance:
  • The dense green cover of indigenous trees plays a key role in absorbing the dust particles of the area where the garden has been set up. The plants also help in regulating surface temperature.
    • Some of the common indigenous plants that are used for these forests include Anjan, Amala, Bel, Arjun and Gunj.
  • These forests encourage new biodiversity and an ecosystem which in turn increases the fertility of the soil.

Miyawaki Forest Method in Mumbai

• Over the years, the cost-effective Miyawaki Plantation Method has become the go-to solution to restore the green cover in a space-starved city like Mumbai.
• The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been implementing the Miyawaki forest approach in various vacant land areas of Mumbai to combat climate change, reduce pollution levels, and enhance the city's green cover.
  • 64 Miyawaki forests have been planted in Mumbai so far.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Q. The "Miyawaki method" is well known for the: (2022)

(a) Promotion of commercial farming in arid and semi-arid areas
(b) Development of gardens using genetically modified flora
(c) Creation of mini forests in urban areas
(d) Harvesting wind energy on coastal areas and on sea surfaces

Ans: (c)

Source: IE