Urban Acupuncture
You probably heard of Acupuncture in the context of traditional medicine which has its roots in ancient China.
The aim of this healing practice is to improve a person’s ‘qi’ – in case you’re wondering, it’s pronounced ‘chee’ - the energy flow on the human body. This flow is created along the pathways called meridians, which connect to internal organs in the body. This is all done by small needles which are inserted into the skin.
Coined by Spanish architect and urbanist Manuel de Sola Morales and developed further by Finnish architect Marco Casagrande. This concept has been gaining increased popularity in recent years.
Cities are considered as complex energy organisms, similar to the human body where energy flows come together. These determine the actions of the citizens, as well as the development of the city.
“The skin of the city has to be observed with the attention of a detective who scrutinises the tinniest clues in it wrinkles and their apparent lack of connection.”
- Manuel de Sola Morales
So now imagine this practice translated into an urban context.
Urban Acupuncture is the process of small interventions into a city, transforming spaces that were once unused or abandoned. Forest and green spaces serve as needles which help the cities to heal. The goal is to move away from the industrial city and create an urban environment where each individual can have a positive impact.
Southbank Centre - Natura Nostra Forest | Lambeth, London, UK
Located within the iconic Southbank Centre's complex and in connection with Hayward Gallery, this unique project will restore a pocket of native British ecosystem in the heart of London, supporting the wellbeing of both people and planet. Within a chaotic concrete jungle, the forest will be a restorative and awe-inspiring space for the millions of people who visit London’s Southbank each year.
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SUGi lets you be part of the healing process for cities.
By planting ultra-dense, biodiverse pocket forests of native species only, according to the Miyawaki method. As extreme weather becomes more frequent, the overabundance of concrete and other impermeable surfaces worsen the impact of heavy rainfall and heatwaves.
Our pocket forests address multiple urban challenges, including biodiversity loss, air pollution, heat island effect, flooding, community wellbeing, and aesthetics.
Case Study: London, UK
With the help of local councils, communities, and institutions, we’ve planted 25 Pocket Forests, including the UK and Europe's largest Miyawaki Forest in Barking and Dagenham. Both big and small rewilding projects are a great example of how pocket forests in minimal urban space can form urban biodiversity corridors and bring local benefits to the community.
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