Creating a Sustainable Future: How the Miyawaki Urban Forest Transformed School Campus

As the world continues to urbanize, access to green spaces has become increasingly important. Not only do green spaces improve mental and physical health, but they also provide environmental benefits such as air purification, carbon sequestration, and water management. These benefits are particularly important for schools, where students spend a significant amount of their time.

One initiative that is transforming education through green spaces is the Miyawaki Urban Forest in MCD School, created by Rise Foundation in association with CBIC. The Miyawaki method is a unique approach to reforestation that involves planting a variety of native tree species in a small area to create a dense, self-sustaining forest ecosystem. This method has been shown to promote biodiversity, increase soil health, and reduce carbon footprint.

The Miyawaki Urban Forest in MCD School (Narela, New Delhi) is a perfect example of how green spaces can transform the education system. Here are some of the benefits of this initiative:

1. Improved Air Quality: The trees in the Miyawaki Urban Forest act as natural air filters, removing pollutants from the air and improving air quality. This is particularly important for schools, where poor air quality can have negative impacts on student health and learning.
2. Enhanced Biodiversity: By planting a variety of native tree species, the Miyawaki Urban Forest promotes biodiversity and provides a habitat for a range of wildlife. This can help students learn about ecology and the importance of conservation.
3. Increased Access to Nature: The Miyawaki Urban Forest provides students with access to nature, which has been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase cognitive functioning.
4. Educational Opportunities: The Miyawaki Urban Forest can be used as a learning tool for students, providing opportunities for hands-on learning about ecology, environmental science, and sustainability.

In the school, Rise Foundation established Tiny Urban Forest in 600 sqft area with 200 native plants like Kachnar, Kadamb, Kadi Patta, Ashok, Tikoma, Neem, Gudhal, Karonda, Ruilia, Madhumalti, Chandani, Champa, Mogra , Lemon grass etc..

By creating green spaces like the Miyawaki Urban Forest in schools, we can create a more sustainable future for education. These spaces not only provide environmental benefits, but also improve student health and learning outcomes. Through initiatives like this, we can promote a greater appreciation for the natural world and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Thanks to team Rise Foundation Mr. Madhukar Varshney, Deepak Bhardwaj, Munish Kundra , Anmol and MCD School Management. For such projects, feel free to reach Rise Foundation at mail2risefoundation@gmail.com or contact at +91 9717764262