Work

Miyawaki and Urban Tiny Forests in Italy

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Rapid urbanization and climate change demand innovative green solutions in city planning. Tiny forests—small artificial wooded areas in urban or peri-urban settings—are gaining attention. This paper explores the use of the Miyawaki method to establish such forests in Italy, highlighting their environmental and educational benefits. The study defines micro-forests (100–200 m2) and mini-forests (200–2000 m2) per legislative standards and describes the qualitative features needed for self-sustaining ecosystems. Mimicking natural succession, these forests support biodiversity, reduce urban heat, improve air quality, and act as carbon sinks. Beyond ecological functions, they offer strong pedagogical value, fostering naturalistic intelligence and reconnecting people with natural rhythms and ecosystems. Case studies from Vigevano and Rome show practical applications, demonstrating how tiny forests can enhance sustainability, community well-being, and environmental awareness in cities.

Source: Earth

DOI: 10.3390/earth6040116

Authors: Bartolomeo Schirone, Antonio Pica, Fabiola Fratini, Patrizia Menegoni, Kevin Cianfaglione

Institutions: Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Sapienza University of Rome, National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Université Catholique de Lille

Language: English

Topic: Urban Arborization and Environmental Studies

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Life on land, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,448