In 2017, Shridhar Sawant and a group of friends transformed an unused parking lot in Mumbai into a flourishing food forest. Located at Pratiraksha Nagar in Vakola, this small green space now hosts various trees, including lemon and breadfruit, and bushes like gooseberry. It has become a lively spot for both locals and pollinators.
Urban forests, such as the well-known Miyawaki method, have gained popularity in recent years. However, some experts are now advocating for food forests as a sustainable approach to greening our cities.
So, what exactly is a food forest? Essentially, it mimics a natural forest but is packed with edible plants. These gardens usually feature seven types of plants, from tall trees to root crops, all designed to work together. This setup not only promotes biodiversity but also supports various wildlife, from tiny insects to larger animals.
Food forests have many environmental advantages, including regulating temperatures, improving air quality, and storing carbon. Unlike traditional urban greening efforts that often focus on purely decorative plants, food forests provide a richer ecosystem.
Mumbai needs this change desperately. A recent study by Springer Nature revealed that the city’s green cover shrank by 42.5% between 1988 and 2018. Environmentalist Shweta Wagh pointed out that many urban greening projects use exotic plants that do not benefit local wildlife. She has successfully planted food forests in locations like Juhu and Malad, where she has observed a thriving community of birds and insects.
Creating good soil is essential for a successful food forest. George Remedios, who has set up food forests across Mumbai, started with a soil test for the project at Pratiraksha Nagar. He found clay mixed with cement, making it unfit for growth. To fix this, he worked with residents to create rich soil using organic waste. This not only helps their garden but also manages urban waste effectively.
According to Diipti Jhangiani of Edible Gardens, food forests can be established in as little as two to three years when the right plants are used. She has planted them across various housing societies, though her previous initiative folded due to disputes over access.
Public parks, like those managed by the Dream Grove Bandra Initiative, are ideal for food forests. Co-leader Premila Martis Parera emphasizes that these spaces aren’t at the mercy of changing institutional priorities. They offer stability for long-term growth.
Experts believe food forests should play a significant role in urban planning and climate action strategies. They also reflect the cultural richness of the region, offering local foods that can help dispel modern culinary trends. However, many advocates emphasize that the main goal is to restore local ecosystems, with food production being an added benefit.
Food forests not only beautify urban landscapes but also create vibrant ecosystems that can educate and enrich communities. As cities continue to grow, investing in nature-friendly practices like these could be key to a sustainable future.
For more on urban greening, you can check out resources from the World Resources Institute and the United Nations Environment Programme.
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