East London I - Natura Nostra Forest

Reviving a green desert in industrialised East London.

Barking and Dagenham, London, England

Miyawaki Forest

Parks

City

Self Sustaining

After approx. two years our SUGi Pocket Forests can be classed as self-sustaining, at which point they can be handed over to nature and left alone for complexity to naturally develop.

Trees

Square Meters

Native Species

Natura Nostra Forest will be located in the dynamic borough of Barking and Dagenham, a heavily polluted and industralised area of London. The creation of a 1,000 Sq m Miyawaki forest - encompassing 3,500 trees - will restore the soil and create a resilient ecological corridor to act as a protective haven for wildlife in this bustling city. It will be a visible demonstration of how nature and urbanisation can co-exist successfully, even in the most densely-populated metropolis.

The borough supports heavy traffic through its arterial roads, which negatively impacts air quality and public health. Natura Nostra Forest will play an important role in mitigating the airborne pollution that comes from this traffic, allowing the local community to breathe cleaner air and setting a standard in air pollution management across London.

Forest Maker
James Godfrey-Faussett

The site of the Natura Nostra Forest in East London, UK

Forest partner

Forest Report: Planting

DATE: 08.11.2022

Forest Design

We choose the leaf of an Oak tree (Quercus Robur) as the design for the forest. The Oak tree is a symbol of strength, morale, resistance and knowledge. Oak trees support a complex ecosystem with many species, including humans.

Natura Nostra Forest will create a tranquil and restorative spot for neighbours and offer the chance to see the return of biodiversity in action. This pocket of forest makes accessible the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of close-contact with nature. It is hoped the space will cultivate community bonds and become a recognised source of joy for all.