02 Feb, 2022
Following the Miyawaki technique of forest development, Sand Grains Foundation undertook a mass tree plantation drive at NKDA’S Green Verge 6 in Kolkata’s New Town AA III on January 30, 2022.
From 7-year-olds to 75-year-olds, our friends and family, supporters and well-wishers participated in enhancing the green cover of Kolkata. The plantation exercise was carried out in collaboration with Hari Mitti Foundation and followed a unique method of afforestation called Miyawaki. We planted varied species of indigenous saplings like neem, teak, tamarind, pomegranate, hibiscus, and other supporting species like mango, jasmine, cashew, etc.
“It is a method of growing trees that involves the planting of different native seeds and saplings in the same area to advocate more bio-diversity. The process is supposed to ensure quick and dense growth of native trees and shrubs. No two saplings of the same species are planted together and a distance of 60cm is maintained between each sapling. A multi-layered fashion of planting is observed, starting with a layer of shrubs and ending with a layer of canopy.” said Mr. Suhrid Chandra, Founder Director of Hari Mitti Foundation, while explaining how the Miyawaki method can help transform the face of Indian cities.
Akira Miyawaki, a Japanese botanist and expert on forest ecology, pioneered the Miyawaki method of urban forest development. This method is self-sustaining and the trees and plants help attract fauna like bees and butterflies that are beneficial for the ecosystem.
Sand Grains Foundation is thoroughly committed to helping offset carbon emissions by planting and nurturing trees and promoting the use of renewable energy resources. Hari Mitti Foundation, with a vision to build eco-friendly urban plantations and reconnect with the soil, helped take this objective one step ahead.
Sanjay Singh, Director of Sand Grains Foundation expressed, “We are delighted to have Mr. Suhrid Chandra, supporting our efforts to increase the green cover in our city and happy to see everyone come together and join us on this noble cause. We truly believe that tree plantation is one of the most pertinent ways to offset carbon emissions, protect the environment and promote sustainable living.”
