Trees have impressive abilities: They clean the air, store water, promote biodiversity and bring life to our surroundings - even in urban areas. However, there is often a lack of space for large forests in cities. This is exactly where the concept of Tiny Forests comes into play.
Small forest, big impact: Tiny Forests explained
A Tiny Forest is a mini forestthat is planted in the smallest of areas - sometimes barely larger than a tennis court. Whether on traffic islands, in gardens, parks or on brownfield sites: This innovative concept makes it possible to create green oases even in densely built-up areas. But a Tiny Forest is much more than just a small forest. With the right method, a functioning ecosystem can develop in the smallest of spaces, which not only helps nature, but also brings the community together.
The roots of Tiny Forests: From Asia to the world
The idea behind the Tiny Forests dates back to the 1970s and was developed by Japanese ecologist Akira Miyawaki developed. This is why the concept is often referred to as Miyawaki-method method. Originally developed in Asia, the Tiny Forest movement has spread worldwide since the 2010s - particularly in Europe.
In the Netherlands, more than 300 Tiny Forests often as joint campaigns with schools, kindergartens or clubs. Also in GroIn the United Kingdom, the organization Earthwatch for Tiny Forests and brings them to schools and public places. There are now also examples of Tiny Forests in Switzerland, for example in Zurich or on the campus of the University of Applied Sciences in Rapperswil.
Why Tiny Forests? The advantages at a glance
Like all forests, Tiny Forests contribute to improving our habitat: They cool the air, store water and support local biodiversity. They also offer numerous other benefits:
- Space-saving: The positive effects of forests are concentrated in a very small area.
- Low maintenance: After planting, Tiny Forests require little care.
- No artificial fertilizer: The method works without chemical additives.
- Fast growth: Most seedlings grow faster than in conventional forests.
- Self-sufficient ecosystems: Stable, self-sustaining forests develop within a few years.
- Native diversity: Native tree and shrub species are used that are ideally suited to the region.
- CO₂ storage: Tiny Forests absorb up to 30 times more CO₂ than monoculture plantations.
- Protection from noise and fine dust: The dense planting acts as a natural filter and soundproofing.
Tiny Forests therefore not only make an ecological contribution, but are also a strong symbol of community action.
How Tiny Forests are created
A Tiny Forest consists of a mixture of different tree, shrub and plant species that are adapted to the soil and climate conditions of the respective region. At the beginning, about three tree seedlings per square meter planted per square meter. This high competitive pressure ensures that the plants grow faster in order to obtain light and nutrients. Within just three to five years a stable mini forest can develop.
After the initial phase, the ecosystem regulates itself: Weaker plants die off, while the remaining trees have more space to develop. This process is known as natural self-thinning.
Each tree and shrub species fulfills an important function in the ecosystem: some species bind moisture, others protect against pests, and still others ensure rapid humus formation. Shortly after planting, the forest becomes a habitat for numerous animal species - and develops into a functioning ecosystem within around 30 years, which would take a conventional forest around 200 years would need.
Tiny Forests: Making a difference together
Tiny Forests are not only an enrichment for nature, but also for the community. They are often created through participatory planting campaignsin which schools, clubs or entire neighborhoods work together. For children in particular, these activities are a great opportunity to better understand nature and develop an awareness of sustainability. Let's work together to bring many small forests to our towns and villages - One tree at a time, #treebytree!
