MINI Ireland and environmental non-profit Earthwatch Europe have chosen The Tolka River Project, a community-based restoration program in County Dublin, as the site of Ireland's first 'Tiny Forest' Project.
The Tolka River Project was selected as the best location because green spaces offer a place where people can learn about nature, exercise, unwind and reduce stress levels.
In an area roughly the size of a tennis court, 600 native trees will be planted closely together and allowed to develop fully naturally. This Tiny Forest design should see up to ten times faster growth and up to thirty times higher carbon dioxide absorption.
The area will draw in more than 500 animal and plant species during the following three years, transforming the Tiny Forest into an accessible mini-ecosystem. The project uses a variety of locally grown indigenous trees, including Silver Birch, Alder, Hazel, Hawthorn and Gorse. The natural layers of a forest will form when this assortment of trees matures.
MINI's collaboration with Earthwatch aims to increase public knowledge of regional environmental initiatives and fortify local ties.
Earthwatch will gather a lot of data in the Tiny Forest over the coming years to learn more about subjects like carbon absorption, thermal comfort, biodiversity and the social benefits of such green spaces in an urban area - thanks to the active support of clients from the Tolka Valley River Project and residents of Mulhuddart.
"It's vital that we give people the knowledge and skills to protect our natural world and inspire them to take positive action. We are delighted to be working with MINI Ireland and bringing the first Tiny Forest to Ireland with the help of the local community," said Louise Hartley, Tiny Forest Officer at Earthwatch Europe. "Tiny Forests provide rich opportunities for connecting young and old alike with the environment and sustainability."
Gerry Ryan, service manager at Tolka River Project, said: "This Tiny Forest symbolically shows that recovery is something that needs to be looked after, the growth of this forest and the requirement of looking after is symbolic in nature to recovery. We plan on using this space to develop recovery based programmes such as mindfulness, yoga in addition to using it as a social space".
As for the tie-in with MINI? According to the brand, "Tiny Forests" are fantastic due to their incredible efficiency in small settings, much like the all-electric MINI. Julie Bothwell, Head of Sales and Marketing for MINI Ireland, said: "MINI are really excited to bring the Tiny Forest movement to Ireland with Earthwatch and we hope that the local community enjoy the benefits of this programme. Our shared values of sustainability and bringing people together is what makes this such a great partnership, this project brings to life what our Big Love Strategy is all about."