Miyawaki Urban Forest
Reclaiming Green in the Concrete Jungle: The Miyawaki Solution
India’s metro and megacities have lost over 50% of their green cover due to rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and population growth. As open spaces shrink and natural ecosystems vanish, cities are turning into concrete jungles. The result? Poor air quality, rising temperatures, loss of biodiversity, and a growing disconnect from nature.
The Need for Urban Forests
To restore ecological balance and create healthier urban environments, we need innovative, fast-growing, and space-efficient solutions. The Miyawaki Method offers exactly that—allowing us to create dense, self-sustaining forests even in small urban plots. It’s a transformative approach to revive greenery right in the heart of our cities.
What is the Miyawaki Method?
Developed by Japanese botanist and ecologist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, this method is based on the concept of Potential Natural Vegetation. It focuses on planting native species in a scientifically designed, multi-layered format that mimics a natural forest. The technique has been successfully implemented in over 3,000 locations worldwide, proving its effectiveness across all climates and soil types.
How It Works
The Miyawaki method involves planting 3–5 saplings per square meter using a mix of 20–50 different native species. This creates a natural multi-layered forest—comprising shrubs, sub-trees, canopy trees, and climbers. The soil is enriched organically with compost and natural boosters, while mulching is used to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Within just 2–3 years, these forests become completely self-sustaining—requiring no chemical fertilizers, no pruning, and minimal maintenance. Compared to conventional methods, these forests grow 10 times faster and are 30 times denser.
Why Miyawaki Forests Matter
Miyawaki forests are not just beautiful green spaces—they’re living ecosystems. They improve air quality, reduce urban heat, recharge groundwater, and restore biodiversity. They act as carbon sinks, help in climate mitigation, and create green sanctuaries that promote mental well-being and community engagement.
Green Leaf Trust & the Miyawaki Mission
At Green Leaf Trust, we are committed to creating dense, native forests in cities, towns, and rural areas using the Miyawaki technique. From school yards and residential societies to industrial zones and barren lands—we identify potential sites and transform them into green oases.
Our projects are people-driven and collaborative. We work with communities, educational institutions, CSR partners, and local governments to make these forests sustainable and community-owned.