The Miyawaki Method: Enhancing Biodiversity and Carbon Absorption with Carbify

At Carbify, we’re committed to integrating biodiversity restoration with nature-based carbon absorption. To achieve this, we focus on sustainable methods that minimize emissions and build resilient ecosystems through agroforestry and afforestation. One approach that aligns with our mission is the Miyawaki Method, a unique and effective way to restore biodiversity while enhancing carbon sequestration.

Together with our lead ecologist, Pierre Trinh, and marketing specialist, Robert Conception, we’ll explore what the Miyawaki Method entails and how Carbify can adopt it to strengthen our sustainability efforts.

What is the Miyawaki Method?

Developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, this innovative afforestation technique is designed to rapidly restore natural biodiversity by replanting native species. The method allows forests to thrive independently with minimal human intervention, making it both highly effective and thoroughly sustainable.

The Miyawaki forests are particularly well-suited for urban environments, where space is limited, but the need for greenery is crucial. Compared to conventional reforestation methods, Miyawaki forests grow faster, become denser, and support much higher levels of biodiversity. This makes them ideal for cities looking to improve climate resilience and combat environmental challenges.

Key Features of the Miyawaki Method

• Native Species Focus: The method emphasizes planting species that are naturally suited to the local climate and ecosystem. This ensures the creation of a balanced, self-sustaining environment where plants interact as they would in a natural forest.
• Dense Canopy and Quick Growth: By planting multiple native species closely together, the forest grows rapidly, creating a dense canopy. This helps enhance carbon absorption, cools the surrounding environment, and provides shelter for local wildlife.
• Minimal Maintenance: Once the forest is established, it requires little to no human intervention after the first 2-3 years. The forest becomes self-sufficient, reducing the need for watering, pruning, or other maintenance efforts.
• Environmental Benefits: These forests not only absorb carbon but also provide flood mitigation, create habitats for wildlife, and contribute to overall ecosystem restoration.
• Scalability in Urban Spaces: One of the most exciting features of the Miyawaki Method is its scalability. Even small plots, as tiny as 3 square meters, can be transformed into dense forests, making it perfect for urban areas. Schoolyards, parks, and even roadsides can become green spaces that benefit both people and the planet.
• Community Engagement: The method encourages local involvement in planting efforts, fostering a connection between people and their environment. This community-driven approach adds social value to the environmental benefits.

How Carbify Adapts the Miyawaki Method

At Carbify, we see strong alignment between the Miyawaki Method and our goal of combining biodiversity restoration with carbon sequestration. This method not only reduces carbon footprints but also creates resilient ecosystems that can withstand the impacts of climate change.

Real-World Application

Carbify has already implemented numerous agroforestry systems in Brazil and Angola, with over 680,000 systems and more than 3 million plants already established. Each system, ranging from 12.5 to 30 square meters, includes a variety of plant species that are geotagged according to the Global Carbon Standard (GCS). By tracking our projects, we can ensure verifiable proof of carbon offsets, addressing up to 10 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Importantly, carbon debits are only sold after the carbon has been absorbed.

Why the Miyawaki Method Fits

The Miyawaki Method fits perfectly within our strategy for creating more sustainable ecosystems. Mature forests are critical carbon sinks that absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide. By rapidly establishing dense forests, the Miyawaki approach significantly boosts carbon absorption efforts.

Additionally, its emphasis on native species and community involvement resonates with our existing projects, which aim to support local biodiversity and livelihoods. This synergy between scientific grounding and social inclusion helps us build ecosystems that are sustainable for future generations.

Expanding Our Vision

With our commitment to scaling sustainable solutions, Carbify is continually exploring new ways to integrate the Miyawaki Method into more urban and rural environments worldwide. By promoting scientifically backed methods that empower communities, we can restore ecosystems on a large scale while addressing urgent climate concerns.

Conclusion: A Path Toward a Greener Future

At Carbify, we believe that sustainable afforestation methods like the Miyawaki Method can play a pivotal role in building a greener, more resilient future. By combining biodiversity restoration, carbon sequestration, and community engagement, we’re not just planting trees—we’re creating ecosystems that benefit people and the planet alike.1

Join us in making a lasting impact as we continue to innovate and expand our efforts for a sustainable tomorrow.

References:

1. The Miyawaki Method for Creating Forests
2. Pros and Cons of the Miyawaki Concept and Tiny Forests