Unity Forest
Bringing 3 schools together in Anderlecht.
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Trees
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Native Species
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Youth Impacted
Self sustaining pocket forest
Planted in October 2022, Unity Forest has now become self-sustaining.
What began as 2,800 m² of open land has grown into a thriving ecosystem, where native trees, plants, and wildlife coexist naturally. Created by the horticultural department of the Institut Redouté Peiffer in Anderlecht - together with Lycée Soeur Emmanuelle and École Raymond Van Belle - Unity Forest now stands as a living example of ecological renewal and community collaboration.
Beyond its environmental impact, the forest continues to inspire and connect people, offering a peaceful space to witness the rhythms of nature and the power of collective action.
Forest Maker
Nicolas de Brabandère
Forest Partner
Ecosystem Restored
Final report: 01.10.2024
After approximately three years our SUGi Pocket Forests become self-sustaining. They no longer require human maintenance or watering, and can be handed over to Nature for biodiversity and complexity to naturally develop.
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People living within 300 meters
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kg of potential CO2 sequestration
Biodiversity
Biodiversity is all the different kinds of life you'll find in one area—the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world. Each of these species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life.
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Potential number of mammals
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Potential number of birds
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Potential number of amphibians
Forest Report: 2024
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Forest Age
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Average of Tallest 3 Trees
Biodiversity Notes:
Forest Report: 2023
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Average of Tallest 3 Trees
Throughout the forest, growth is generally uniform, except for a specific area once planted with walnut trees - known for releasing allelopathic substances (juglones) which inhibit germination and growth of neighboring plants. The prevalence of grass in this section poses a challenge, requiring regular maintenance to prevent it from smothering other plants. Despite exposure to wind and sun, the overall condition of the trees is robust and healthy. The buzzing presence of numerous flying insects adds to the lively ecosystem. Notably, there has been one maintenance effort since the initial planting, so we cannot yet consider the forest to be self-sustaining. The proximity of a school nearby also adds to the feeling of community in the surrounding area.
Planting: October 2022
Why the Unity Forest?
The project focused on bringing together teachers and students in Anderlecht and making each step of the creation a shared, educational experience. The pupils and teachers were trained in the Miyawaki method. The four main parts of the teaching programme consisted of: the study of the soil, preparation of the soil, native species research and planting. Unity Forest has engaged and challenged the mind, encouraged dialogue across different schools and age groups, and strengthened community bonds.
