Papenhof Forest
Nature-based therapy at the heart of a city.
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Trees
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Native Species
Papenhof Forest is a SUGi Pocket Forest planted in a new residential area in the heart of Mechelen, a city between Brussels and Antwerp in northern Belgium.
In summer, when exposed to wind and sun, this space suffers from heat and drought stress. But by planting a Miyawaki forest, we hope to help control the city temperature, keeping this area green and habitable.
Creating urban forests can be challenging due to limited space, but when Nature is made more accessible, it provides balance between human and ecological needs.
Forest Maker
Herman & Nicolas
“I would love to be able to plant a core of biodiversity in a new neighborhood that will bring the residents and their young children into direct contact with nature. ”
Herman Janssens, Urban Forests
Forest Report: 2024
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Forest Age
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Survival Rate
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Average of Tallest 3 Trees
Papenhof Forest is growing well, though it is still young, and will have most of its growth seasons still ahead of itself. It has a near-perfect survival rate, with poplars starting to reach two meters’ height.
The forest has seen a round of maintenance organised by the city of Mechelen, together with the residents of a nearby co-housing assisted living complex, highlighting how our forests can be a place of reconnecting with nature to local communities.
Planting: December 2023
Community support
This project involved local organisations such as Kilmaan, a citizen movement for the climate, and Huppeldepup, a facility designed to cater to the needs of both children and adults with physical or mental disabilities.
