Yes, you read that right, Bosque de Neza is already being planted and will be the first SUGi pocket forest in Mexico City and the country, but what are pocket forests? We tell you.
These pocket forests are appearing in different parts of the world, and are specially designed for each space with species native to the area that grow and mature in just twenty years.
These small spaces offer more than just pretty vegetation, they restore ecosystems, boost biodiversity and inspire us to reimagine different urban spaces as thriving natural habitats.
The pocket forests are inspired by a technique called the Miyawaki Method, an afforestation technique developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki that involves planting a variety of plants in a small space so that they compete for light and grow upwards at the same time, accelerating the growth of vegetation.
This makes it possible to create small urban forests in abandoned industrial areas, improving biodiversity and combating climate change.
About Bosque de Neza
Bosque de Neza will be located on the outskirts of Mexico City, in an area that was once part of the former and now defunct Lake Texcoco.
This part of the city suffers from a shortage of green spaces and is one of the most affected by the city’s heat island effect. This pocket forest will be planted by students and the local community, which will also ensure its long-term maintenance and care.
The Bosque de Neza will have 1,500 trees located in 500 square meters and will be made up of 25 species native to Mexico.
The design of this pocket forest will be a circular green space strategically located within a barren area next to a sports field and a university campus.
This initiative seeks to expand this project throughout the streets and public spaces of Neza, renaturalizing saline soils, restoring biodiversity, and mitigating climate change.
To honor the region’s rich history and indigenous roots, the Bosque Neza opening ceremony will feature a traditional sacred ceremony, invoking the spirit of ancient Mexica culture.
More about SUGi Project
This project provides a 360-degree approach to ecosystem restoration and the construction of spaces full of biodiversity, re-establishing connections between nature and communities.
They work hand in hand with forest creators to deliver forest locations, project design, species selection, site preparation, planting, and ongoing monitoring and reporting on results.
In total, 230 pocket forests have been created in 24 different countries for the purpose of combating climate change and community well-being.