Research

In February 2017 scientists from WENR started to monitor the effects of our first Tiny Forest in the municipality of Zaanstad. This study ran for a year. Thanks to the Dutch Postcode Lottery we were able to start a four year research program in February 2018, that is executed by the same scientists. In this study they monitored the effect of eleven Tiny Forests on biodiversity, CO2 sequestering, thermal comfort and water retention. The scientists from WENR got help from 100 citizen scientist in 2019 and 2020, who assisted with the monitoring of the biodiversity. What have we learned about the effects of Tiny Forest so far?

Biodiversity

The report by Wageningen Environmental Research explores the biodiversity of two Tiny Forests in Zaanstad. It shows that these small, densely planted urban forests attract more species than nearby reference areas, making them valuable for local nature. The research also demonstrates that citizen science—data collection by volunteers—can be an effective method for biodiversity monitoring, as long as participation is consistent.

Download research report

Mental health

The report “A Little Bit of Nature, A Big Influence” by IVN Nature Education, authored by science journalist Mark Mieras, explores the significant impact of green spaces on mental health and cognitive function. Drawing from various scientific studies, it highlights that even minimal exposure to nature can alleviate stress, reduce the risk of psychiatric disorders, and enhance overall well-being. The report underscores the importance of integrating natural environments into urban settings to foster healthier communities.

Download research report

Challenges

The research programme ‘Trees Outside Woodlands’ has undertaken a project investigating the barriers faced in urban tree establishment and trialling methods of improvement. The Trees Outside Woodlands programme is delivered in partnership between Defra, Natural England, The Tree Council, and five local authorities. Of these local authorities, Kent County Council has led the urban tree establishment project. This report has been developed by the partnership as research evidence and any related policy recommendations should consider this research in its wider context.

Read project report

Miyawaki Research Results

Microforests For Change is a UK initiative creating dense native tree microforests using the Miyawaki method. They help boost biodiversity and engage communities through planning, planting, and maintenance services.

Research results

Reports in Dutch

Earthwatch Monitoringsrapport 2024

Earthwatch Monitoringsrapport 2023

WUR Monitoringsrapport 2022

WUR Protocol CO2 Vastlegging 2020

Factsheet 2017-2021

CO2 Sequestering

The “Tiny Forests” section of the Gereedschapskist Klimaatslim Bos- en Natuurbeheer explains the idea and impact of small, densely planted native forests in cities. Each forest covers about 200–250 m² and contains roughly 600 trees from 25–40 native species. These forests help fight climate change by capturing CO₂ and improving the local climate. Research by Wageningen Environmental Research shows that older Tiny Forests absorb more CO₂. In 2020, a standard forest stored 127.5 kg of CO₂ per year, expected to double as it matures.

Read more (Dutch) Read inventory protocol (ENG)

Resources

Learn more about Tiny Forests with the handbook, videos and our infographics.

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