The Telangana government has introduced a new method of afforestation, called the Miyawaki method, with the aim of growing urban forests and increasing the region’s green cover. This innovative technique also puts Telangana on track to meet its set plantation goal under the Telanganaku Haritha Haaram (TKHH). The approach, originally developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, is designed to develop dense, native forests in a reduced time frame, transforming the way we view urban afforestation.
The Miyawaki Method: A Revolution in Urban Afforestation
At the heart of the Miyawaki method is the idea of space-efficient planting. Only native species are used, and they are planted as closely together as possible. This not only utilises space effectively, but also encourages the saplings to support each other’s growth. Moreover, the thick canopy they form blocks sunlight from reaching the ground, preventing the growth of weeds.
After an initial three years of maintenance, the saplings become self-sustainable. Impressively, the Miyawaki method stimulates plant growth that is 10 times faster and results in a forest that is 30 times denser than one created by conventional methods. Additionally, the process speeds up forest creation from 200-300 years to just 20-30 years.
The Process Involved
The Miyawaki method involves several steps. Firstly, the native trees of the region are identified and divided into four layers: shrub, sub-tree, tree, and canopy. Then, the soil quality is analysed, and additional biomass which can improve perforation capacity, water retention, and nutrients, is mixed with it.
Following this, a mound is built with the soil and seeds are densely planted – around three to five saplings per square meter. Finally, the ground is covered with a thick layer of mulch.
Table: Comparison of Miyawaki Method and Conventional Afforestation
| Miyawaki Method | Conventional Afforestation | |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Speed | 10x Faster | Standard |
| Density | 30x Denser Forest | Standard Density |
| Time to Create Forest | 20-30 Years | 200-300 Years |
| Maintenance Requirement | Self-sustainable After 3 Years | Requires Regular Maintenance |
Concerns and Criticisms of Miyawaki Method
Despite its benefits, some criticisms have been leveled at the Miyawaki method. While the forests created are dense and grow quickly, they lack some qualities of natural forests. For instance, they may not possess medicinal properties or contribute to rainfall.
Furthermore, some environmentalists argue that these fast-growing plantations are merely wood lots, capable of small-scale forest product production, and should not be classified as “forests”. There is also debate over whether it’s beneficial to force plants to photosynthesise quickly, as this might not replicate the complex ecosystem of an authentic forest.
