The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is taking a proactive approach towards improving the city's environment by planting more trees. The BMC is developing 14 urban Miyawaki forests across Mumbai, using the Japanese Miyawaki technique to plant 80,400 trees. 

The technique involves planting trees vertically and close to each other, which helps in the competition for resources such as sunlight and water. This, in turn, helps the trees grow faster and expand their roots quickly, leading to a dense forest. The Miyawaki method has a tree density that is 30 times higher than other planting methods, making it ideal for cities like Mumbai where space is a concern.

Under the BMC's Urban Forest project launched in 2020, 64 mini forests have already been developed, with over four lakh plants planted, including indigenous varieties such as Anjan, Bel, Amala, Gunj, Arjun, and Sonchafa. BMC officials, in collaboration with NGOs and CSR funding, are working towards developing large Miyawaki forests close to the BEST Colony, Chandivali's Swami Vivekanand Udyan, and Jogeshwari's Mahakali caves road.

The BMC's efforts have been recognized globally, with the Consul General of Japan in Mumbai lauding their efforts. Mumbai's Miyawaki project has also proved its effectiveness in absorbing dust, minimizing carbon and noise pollution, and protecting biodiversity. The BMC is planning to conduct a fresh census this year to ascertain the city's current tree count.

While the Miyawaki technique has proven to be highly effective in developing urban forests, experts suggest that planting native species that can survive in their natural climate is also critical. Preventing the cutting down of large and old trees is also important, as young plants cannot offer the same benefits as an older tree with a wide canopy. The Miyawaki technique is not just a way to beautify the city; it has several environmental benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for citizens.