Two Miyawaki forests launched

Mangaluru: World Environment Day saw the launch of two Miyawaki Forests—one by Nitte (Deemed to be University) and another by the Young Indians (Yi) Mangaluru chapter, on Thursday.Nitte (Deemed to be University) launched the Nitte Miyawaki Forest. Pratap Lingaiah, state NSS officer, youth empowerment and sports department, govt of Karnataka, inaugurated it by unveiling the plaque and planting a sapling.The Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, is a proven technique for creating dense, fast-growing native forests using only indigenous plant species. It involves high-density, multi-layered planting that mimics natural forest ecosystems, resulting in rapid growth and self-sustainability within 2-3 years.Native species such as neem, benga, kadamba, mango, golden shower, Ashoka tree, Indian blackberry, kokum, monkey jack, surahonne, jackfruit, red sandalwood, and cinnamon were planted in a 6,534 sqft dedicated to developing the Nitte Miyawaki Forest. These activities are part of the ongoing mission of Nitte to promote green initiatives.Yi Mangaluru chapter achieved a green milestone with the launch of a Miyawaki forest at NorthernSky Greenfield Meadows, Surathkal. Spearheaded by the chapter's climate change vertical, this initiative stands as an example of youth-driven environmental stewardship and community-led climate resilience. The land measuring 1,900sqm for the Miyawaki forest was provided by NorthernSky properties, while the saplings were procured from the Karnataka forest department, reinforcing public-private collaboration in environmental restoration. The event was graced by Anthony Mariappa, deputy conservator of forests, Mangaluru division.M Athmika Amin, immediate past chair of Yi Mangaluru and regional mentor for the climate change vertical SRTKKA, addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of the Miyawaki method. She reaffirmed Yi's commitment to launching many more such urban forestry projects in the near future.Addressing the gathering, Mariappa highlighted the pressing need for civil society to support afforestation efforts. With growing urban development leading to tree loss, particularly from road widening and infrastructure projects, community-led plantation drives are crucial to restoring ecological balance. He also emphasised the role of urban forests in mitigating climate change impacts.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes, messages, and quotes !