Tiny Forest receives VHG Green Award on Sustainable Tuesday

The ‘Tiny Forest’ initiative was awarded the VHG Groenprijs 2022 on Tuesday 6 September, during Sustainable Tuesday. This prize is awarded annually to a green initiative that brings people and nature closer together. Koninklijke Vereniging van Hoveniers en Groenvoorzieners (VHG) is a partner of Sustainable Tuesday. With this award, the trade association wants to draw attention to the value of natural greenery in making the Netherlands more sustainable. 

Tiny Forest is an initiative of IVN Natuureducatie Amsterdam. A Tiny Forest is a dense, native mini-forest the size of a tennis court. These forests, with about 40 different species of trees and shrubs, are not only a paradise for insects, butterflies and birds, but also for local residents and children. A Tiny Forest in a schoolyard can serve as an outdoor classroom where children learn about nature. In addition to these benefits, these forests also provides cooling, water storage and improves air quality.

Cooperation with partners  

Initiator Daan Bleichrodt is very happy with this recognition: “I have been working for 8 years to create Tiny Forests together with gardeners, local residents, municipalities and children. Together we make the city greener and bring nature closer to children.” So far, 250 mini-forests have been created in neighbourhoods, gardens, schoolyards and business parks. 

In addition to Tiny Forest, Peel Natuurdorpen and the bee collective labour agreement were also nominated for the VHG Groenprijs. All three nominees will receive help from VHG to take their initiatives farther. The winner will also receive a trophy and an amount of € 1000,-. 

Sustainable democracy 

Sustainable Tuesday offers a platform for sustainable ideas and initiatives. Minister Rob Jetten of Climate and Energy, on behalf of the cabinet, recieved a suitcase with more than 300 sustainable initiatives and ideas from society. Sustainable ribbons and prizes were also awarded. Writer Eva Rovers delivered the Sustainable Throne Speech. She asked the question how sustainable our democracy actually is and made a plea for ‘the citizens’ council’: a group of randomly chosen people who form a representative reflection of society. This group examines a complex social problem and makes recommendations for new policies. 

The Sustainable Tuesday suitcase  

Every year, the Sustainable Tuesday suitcase contains hundreds of sustainable ideas and initiatives in the field of circular economy, food, nature, energy, climate or social innovation, from all corners of our society. The most sustainable, innovative and distinctive ideas and initiatives have a chance to win prizes and the opportunity to give the idea or initiative an extra boost.   

Photo: Daan Bleichrodt and his colleague Ian Mostert of IVN Natuureducatie receive the VHG Groenprijs 2022 from Arne Weverling on behalf of Royal VHG.  

Source: VHG