MST’s Forest Project Takes Root

Last month, students in Willow and Ginkgo had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of forest ecosystems and sustainability through an engaging visit from Silva’s Kawashita-san.

Silva specializes in creating strong, resilient forests using the Miyawaki method, which closely mimics natural native forests by planting a diverse mix of species in a dense arrangement. By planting three saplings per square meter instead of the usual one, Silva’s method creates healthier forests that are more resistant to disease and environmental challenges. While it takes nature 200 to 300 years to develop a forest, humans can accelerate this process and establish one in just 20 to 30 years.

Forests play a crucial role in combating climate change, preventing flooding and landslides, purifying air and water, and fixing CO2. Recognizing these benefits, MST has partnered with Silva this school year to introduce a new environmental curriculum, “Greening MST Garden.”

Elementary Ecologists

Students in Willow have been actively regenerating soil by repurposing pruned tree branches and charcoal, which were previously discarded. Instead, these materials are now used to create SODA (bundles of branches), helping to enrich the soil with microbes while also capturing CO2. Willow students even took the initiative to visit Lower

Elementary classes to encourage younger students to join their sustainability efforts.

During Silva’s visit, Willow students participated in an informative lecture covering why forests are essential, how they function, and their impact on all living things through CO2 fixation and oxygen production.

Ginkgo students also attended a session titled “The Function and Role of Forests”, where they learned how different generations of trees support one another. They even acted as a forest, experiencing firsthand the interdependence of trees within an ecosystem. Inspired by Silva’s insights, Ginkgo students will begin making their own SODA in the small garden outside their classroom.

Meanwhile, students in Maple and Oak enjoy daily access to the MST Garden, where they continue working on SODA projects and caring for soil microbes. They have even started teaching lessons to Sunshine students during the morning work cycle, further fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

Silva’s 28th Planting Festival

Looking for a hands-on way to support sustainability? Join Silva’s 28th Planting Festival on Sunday, May 11 at Meguri no Mori in Shonan (near Kamakura/Zushi). This family-friendly event is open to all ages, offering a wonderful opportunity to help create strong, resilient forests together.

To participate, sign up via: Sign-up Genius
The MST Bus will be available for 27 people.

For more information click here or contact

naoko@montessorijapan.com for more details.

MST Sustainability Committee: Plant-Based Foods Workshop

The MST Sustainability Committee (SC) is excited to offer a hands-on workshop to share sustainable, nutritious, and delicious plant-based foods with the MST community. Join us for a morning of fun and learning as we prepare and enjoy:

Green Smoothie
Lentil Salad

Workshop Details:

Date: April (Exact date & Sign-up Genius link coming soon!)
Location: Iki Iki Plaza
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Fee: 2,000 yen
Capacity: Around 15 people

–Naoko Kikkawa, Sustainability Lead, with Maria Hovi