Eastbrook Forest

Tackling air pollution in industrialised East London.

Barking and Dagenham, London, England

Miyawaki Forest

School

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

Youth Impacted

Eastbrook School continues SUGi’s efforts to rewild industrialised East London. The school is located in the dynamic borough of Barking and Dagenham, one of the most polluted parts in the city. The creation of a Miyawaki forest here will restore the soil, create a vibrant biodiversity corridor, and bring nature closer for neighbours, families and the borough as a whole..

Students observe rewilding in progress and exploration of the forest will supplement the studies of both primary and secondary pupils. The dense planting of native trees will also help to reduce pollution in the air, creating a healthier atmosphere for the entire school community.

Forest Maker
James Godfrey-Faussett

Forest Partner

“Planting trees on school grounds has many benefits such as spreading environmental awareness to students, teachers and the wider community. This will help us all to understand the importance of a wildlife sanctuary and why it should be protected.”
Terri Suter, Year 8 Student, Eastbrook School

Forest Report: 2023

0 Months

Forest Age

Survival Rate

Average of Tallest 3 Trees

Eastbrook forest stands as a testament to a successful and well-developed planting area. The overall health of the planting is showing robust growth and vitality.

A smaller band of planting is observed along an existing linear tree planting. However, it's important to highlight that this specific section is comparatively smaller than the overall and average planting size in the area. This is probably caused by the shadow from the existing tree line, affecting the growth dynamics of the vegetation in this particular zone.

Notably, the use of straw mulch is still present throughout the area. Oaks have been observed as the smallest species in the overall site.

Eastbrook forest has done well in growing healthy and thriving plants.

Biodiversity Notes:

Forest Report: 2022

0 Months

Forest Age

Survival Rate

Average of Tallest 3 Trees

Planted just before the summer, this forest is establishing wonderfully. In particular the crack willow (Salix fragilis), which is currently the tallest species in the forest, along with the dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) and wild cherry (Prunus avium), are doing well. Overall, all species seem to be growing happily.

Several species have resprouted after initial stress and die back - this is always a positive sign as the new growth put out by the saplings is highly resilient. This forest is providing real joy within the school community and is being well looked after by the students.

Student standing proudly his 7 month Wild Cherry (Prunus avium).

Biodiversity Notes:

“Allowing students to be part of a project that shows the impact of planting trees has on the school community and the diversity of life that emerges as it grows into a thriving ecosystem is truly exciting for us. At this pivotal time of climate change, Eastbrook School can be a model school to lead the way to increase the number of trees in our local community.”
Miss Arnill and Miss Hull, Teachers, Eastbrook School