Future Ecologies FE6.5 - The Method
Jun 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Heather Shibley, a landscape architect and ecology expert, and Gaurav Gurjar, ecology lead for Aforest and India’s first Green Champion, delve into the revolutionary Miyawaki method of creating mini-forests. They explore its rapid adoption worldwide, the intricate balance of high-density plantings with local ecosystems, and share personal insights on its effectiveness. However, they don't shy away from critiques, addressing the ecological concerns and the need for nuanced, location-specific approaches to urban reforestation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Gaurav's Industrial Forest Journey
- Gaurav Gurjar was inspired to create forests using manufacturing precision after meeting Dr. Miyawaki at Toyota.
- He founded a company to standardize native forest creation as a scalable industrial process.
Plants as Community Subjects
- The Miyawaki method challenges traditional views by treating plant communities as subjects, not objects.
- It highlights species co-evolution and natural relationships within dense forest ecosystems.
Miyawaki Method Core Steps
- Prepare your site by excavating and heavily amending soil with nutrients, water retention, and aeration components.
- Plant 3-5 woody native plants per square meter across four forest layers randomly to mimic natural forest structure.
