Bochum's Tiny Forest project turns an abandoned plot into a thriving green oasis

A vacant plot in Bochum's Wattenscheid district is being transformed into a dense, biodiverse forest. The project, known as a Tiny Forest, was proposed by local resident Özlem Agildere, who rallied neighbours to support the idea. Now, the once-abandoned site will become a green space for both people and wildlife.

The initiative began when Agildere and her neighbours launched a citizen campaign to repurpose the disused municipal depot. After gaining approval from the city council in late 2021, the project received around one million euros in funding. The site, covering nearly 1,500 square metres, will soon be filled with native trees like oak, maple, and rowan.

The forest is being planted using the Miyawaki method, which packs at least three trees per square metre. This extreme density forces the strongest plants to grow rapidly, creating a thriving ecosystem much faster than traditional forests. Since 2019, similar Tiny Forests in Essen, Brandenburg, Munich, and Darmstadt have shown success in boosting biodiversity, improving air quality, and regulating urban temperatures. Local students are also getting involved. Thirteen-year-old Jonas, a pupil at Märkisches Gymnasium, is among the volunteers helping to plant the new forest. Once complete, the area will serve as both a peaceful retreat for residents and an outdoor learning space for schools. The method's effectiveness relies on permeable soil and minimal human disturbance. By limiting access, the forest can develop micro-habitats for insects and animals while also retaining water, reducing noise, and cooling the surrounding area.

The Tiny Forest will replace a long-abandoned depot with a living, breathing green space. Designed for both nature and the community, it aims to enhance local biodiversity and provide a quiet escape for residents. Schools will also use the area for environmental education, ensuring its benefits extend beyond the trees themselves.