Consider the following statement about “Miyawaki” Plantation Method:

1. In December 2023, in a bid boost forest cover in the coal belt region of Chhattisgarh, Coal India Ltd subsidiary, South Eastern Coalfileds Ltd (SECL) will undertake plantation using the Miyawaki method for the first time in its operational areas.

2. The Miyawaki method of plantation was pioneered in the 90s by Spanish botanist and expert in plant ecology Mr. Akira Miyawaki.

3. This technique of plantation involves planting native trees, shrubs and groundcover plants within every square metre.

Which of the statement given above is/are correct?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Statement 1 and 3

Explanation:

• In December 2023, South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Ltd, initiated the use of the Miyawaki method to enhance forest cover in Chhattisgarh's coal belt region. This marks SECL's first implementation of this technique in its operational areas. ​
• The Miyawaki method was developed in the 1970s by Dr. Akira Miyawaki, a Japanese botanist and plant ecology expert.
• This plantation technique involves densely planting native trees, shrubs, and groundcover plants—typically 3 to 4 saplings per square meter—to simulate the layers of a natural forest. ​
• Information Booster:

Key Principles of the Miyawaki Method:

1.  Biodiversity: Planting native species close together to promote competition, symbiotic relationships, and a self-sustaining ecosystem.

2.  Dense Planting:High-density planting ensures quick canopy closure, minimizing sunlight on the ground, reducing weed growth, and enhancing sapling growth.

3.  Soil Preparation: Enriching soil with organic matter, nutrients, and microorganisms for optimal tree growth.

4.   Mulching: Applying mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil fertility.

5. Regular Maintenance: Ongoing care (watering, weeding, monitoring) during early stages for successful forest establishment.

Benefits of the Miyawaki Method:

1. Rapid Forest Development: Miyawaki forests grow 10x faster, are 30x denser, and have 100x more biodiversity than traditional plantations.
2. High Biodiversity: Encourages a variety of native species, supporting habitats for wildlife and promoting ecosystem health.
3. Enhanced Carbon Sequestration: Dense growth leads to efficient carbon absorption, helping to mitigate climate change.
4. Improved Soil Quality: Enriches soil fertility and structure, enhancing the long-term health of the forest.
5. Noise and Air Pollution Reduction: Acts as a sound barrier and improves air quality by absorbing pollutants and particulate matter.
6. Sustainable Water Management:Dense vegetation acts as a natural sponge, absorbing rainfall, reducing runoff, and preventing water pollution.
7. Regulates Surface Temperature: Helps combat the urban heat island effect by cooling urban areas through shade and evapotranspiration.