Naples – A patch of Mediterranean scrub challenges the gray of Scampia. This morning, on Via Zuccarini (section H), the neighborhood's first Community Microforest was created: 200 square meters colonized by 400 native plants and a perimeter hedge of Teucrio. A pact between Legambiente, the Municipality, and local communities to regenerate a neglected area, using the Miyawaki method, which promises a resilient, low-cost, miniature urban forest.
A pact against degradation: the protagonists of the inauguration
Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, Deputy Mayor Laura Lieto, Councilor for Green Space Vincenzo Santagada, President of the Eighth Municipality Nicola Nardella, and Councilor Giuseppe Esposito were present.
Joining them are Mariateresa Imparato of Legambiente Campania, Sandro Scollato of AzzeroCO2, and Adriana Oliva, a former Vanvitelli professor and co-funder. The project brings together Legambiente (lead partner with Iride and La Gru clubs), businesses like AzzeroCO2 and L'Uomo e il Legno, and Municipality 8.
Miyawaki Method: Self-regulating biodiversity
Inspired by the "Tiny Forests of the Mediterranean," the microforest aims to create a compact ecosystem: 16 native species to enhance clean air, biodiversity, and combat the urban heat island effect. The ecological goal: zero maintenance after initial establishment, thanks to natural self-regulation. The social goal: involving residents, schools, and the voluntary sector in caring for the space, facilitated by its proximity to Metro Line 1.
What we know so far about the local impact
Alarming data on green spaces: Naples suffers from insufficient public spaces; here, the challenge of low-cost urban reforestation is being launched.
Information panels coming soon: On wood, for rules of use, awareness raising, and educational activities.
Replicability: Constant monitoring to export the model to other degraded corners of the city.
"Urban reforestation is health for citizens and climate resilience," thunders Imparato. "From Scampia, we're rethinking abandoned spaces: more greenery, more community, less concrete."
Source EDITORIAL TEAM
Comments (1)
I'm happy that something is finally being done for the environment and greenery in Scampia. However, I wonder if these microforests can really make a difference in the neighborhood. Let's hope people actively participate and it doesn't remain just a symbolic gesture.