We now know the Miyawaki method of urban mini-forests.
We took soil samples for analysis.
We weeded out invasive exotic plants.
We pruned the species that will remain in the space.
We collected all the rubbish.
We mapped out the space.
We created the design of the mini-forest.
We cleared the land.
Now it's time to mark out the design on the ground to guide the planting. The final design balances spaces for people and forested spaces and we can't wait to see the mini-forest take shape!
On January 19th at 2pm, we'll gather in the grounds next to the ISEG library to mark out the paths, clearings and spaces for planting. These steps are very important and precede planting.
Join us. We need many hands!
To take part, all you need to do is register here or contact researcher Oriana Rainho Brás at orianarb@socius.iseg.ulisboa.pt
The mini-forest and its creation process are part of the TERRARE - Action research for social and ecological regenerationThe project is being developed by researcher Oriana Rainho Brás at SOCIUS/CSG, with the support of ISEG Sustainability, as well as the collaboration of biologist António Alexandre from 2Adapt-Serviços de Adaptação Climática and FCUL, and with the partnership of ValorSul-Valorização e Tratamento de Resíduos Sólidos das Regiões de Lisboa e do Oeste, SA, which is supplying the organic compost to enrich the soil.
The TERRARE project aims to reflect on the eco-social processes involved in creating an urban mini-forest with the participation of the university community and the dynamics of research into soil regeneration through reforestation and community involvement. ISEG's mini-forest follows the Miyawaki method, characterized by the dense planting of native species belonging to all the strata of a forest, which allows them to grow rapidly in spaces as small as 300m2. The mini-forest model (tiny forest)brings multiple benefits: diversification of local fauna and flora, carbon absorption, water fixation, thermal regulation and soil regeneration, plus the well-being of humans and more-than-humans and the enormous potential for learning in connection with nature.
We look forward to seeing you!