Inner West to trial ‘micro forests’

Wednesday 16 February 2022

Council will trial planting ‘micro forests’ across the Inner West.

Micro forests are urban revegetation projects creating dense copses bursting with biodiversity.

The miniature forests are growing in popularity around the world and are based on a movement founded by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki.

Councillor Chloe Smith, who moved the Motion at last Tuesday’s Council Meeting, said micro forests can improve biodiversity and reduce carbon emissions in big cities.

“The benefits include street cooling, beautification, carbon dioxide absorption, and wildlife habitation,” she said.

“Micro forests also build community connections and provide hope for the future,” she added.

“Last year, Council undertook the largest investment in public tree planting in the history of the Inner West - a record $3 million commitment for new tree planting in the 2021-22 financial year, as well as the more than 4,000 trees planted across the Inner West between 2020-2022,” Councillor Smith said.

“And last Tuesday night, 8 March, I asked for – and got – a funding commitment of no less than $2 million for new tree planting in the next Council budget for the 2022-23 financial year.

“So, you can see the future is looking very green for Inner West Council,” Councillor Smith said.

For media enquiries, contact Elizabeth Heath, Media and Communications Coordinator, 9392 5334 or Elizabeth.Heath@innerwest.nsw.gov.au