As cities worldwide, including those in Kerala, experience rapid growth, the environment faces increasing pressure. By 2050, an estimated 70% of the global population is projected to be urban. While cities occupy only 3% of the Earth’s land, they contribute significantly to environmental issues like climate change and pollution, emitting 78% of carbon emissions and consuming 60% of residential water.
Kerala grapples with its own urban challenges. Reduced vegetation, increased paved areas and shrinking open spaces lead to rising temperatures, a phenomenon known as the ‘heat island effect.’ Urban forests, patches of greenery within urban and semi-urban areas, offer a solution. These green spaces provide numerous benefits, from recreational and educational opportunities to mitigating climate change and protecting biodiversity.
The World Health Organisation recommends a minimum amount of green space per person in cities, but Kerala’s urban areas often fall short. This highlights the urgent need for more green spaces, which can be achieved by integrating them into development plans.
Recognising the importance of connecting children with nature, the Kerala Forest Department established ‘Forestry Clubs’ in schools during the 1980s. With over 1,000 clubs established, they are now reviving and expanding this initiative through ‘Mission Forestry Clubs.’
This mission takes a two-pronged approach. First, it aims to create environmental consciousness and encourage active involvement among students. Expanding the network of Forestry Clubs across Kerala schools provides a platform for students to learn about and engage in environmental issues.
Second, the mission proposes establishing ‘Vidhya Vanam’ (educational forests) within schools and colleges. These miniature forests will be developed using two key methods. Multi-canopy planting involves layering trees, shrubs and climbers to create dense forests quickly, maximising the ecological benefits within a limited space. Additionally, using plants indigenous to the area ensures adaptation to the local environment and promotes the conservation of local biodiversity.
The aim of Vidhya Vanam is twofold. These miniature forests serve as outdoor classrooms, educating and sensitising students about the ecological, biological and recreational values of forests. By developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment, Vidhya Vanam hopes to inspire a sense of responsibility and ignite a conservationist attitude in young minds.
Aim and Objectives of Vidhya Vanam
The overall aim of Vidhya Vanam programme is to inculcate, in the future leaders of the country, love for forests and nature by creating miniature forest patches in school / college premises through high-density planting of indigenous species with their active participation.
The specific objectives of the programme shall be:
- To create miniature forest patches in the school/ college premises so as to enable the students to feel and experience forests;
- To provide hands-on experience to the students on various aspects of raising forests.
3.To enhance green areas in the school / college premises to reduce the ill-effects of urbanization and climate change;
- To demonstrate to the students about native and indigenous species, biodiversity value and ecosystem services;
- To impart education and awareness to the students on the role of forests in mitigating climate change and clean environment;
- To increase the aesthetic value of school/ college premises.
Key design principles
The following are the key design principles that need to be kept in mind while developing Vidhya Vanam:
- Miniature forests in small plots in school / college premises
- Reliance on indigenous species and exclusion of exotic and invasive species
- Mimicking the natural forests in the area
- High density planting and tall seedlings
- Multi-layered canopy
- Intensive tending operations
- Quick establishment as natural forests
- Low-cost for establishment and maintenance .
- Public participation
- Theme based planting
Implementation aspects
The Vidhya Vanam program aims to create miniature natural forests within school and college grounds. Student participation is crucial, and Forestry Clubs can play a key role. Signing a Memorandum of Understanding with these clubs can help ensure the long-term protection and maintenance of the forests. Once established, these forests can serve as valuable outdoor classrooms for students.
Organic methods are preferred to improve soil fertility and exotic species are strictly prohibited. Native shrubs, herbs and climbers should be used whenever possible. Polythene bags are discouraged and biodegradable materials are encouraged for raising planting materials.
Before starting a Vidhya Vanam project, soil testing is recommended to assess soil quality. This information helps determine suitable plant species and necessary silvicultural practices.
Watering is essential, especially during the initial years, and the specific method should be chosen based on the unique conditions of each site.
Each Vidhya Vanam plot should have a dedicated journal maintained by the involved institution. This journal should document all activities undertaken, including photographs and other relevant details. The Forest Department can provide guidance to organisations in maintaining these journals.
The Forest Department also offers support to those interested in replicating the Vidhya Vanam model in their own institutions. They provide a list of recommended plant species, along with guidance on raising seedlings and planting techniques.
By implementing these measures, the Vidhya Vanam program can create a network of thriving miniature forests, fostering a deeper connection with nature, environmental awareness and a more sustainable future for Kerala.