Most of us would have experienced that being in nature improves your mood. Whether it’s walking in a beautiful rainforest, swimming in the ocean or a moment of wonder at the plants and birds around you; nature offers a respite from daily routines and demands. There is evidence to back up the link between exposure to natural settings and better psychological well-being.

Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) defined as a visit to the forest for relaxation and to improve one's health, became part of a national public health program in Japan in 1982. This practice is proven to have positive medical impact, increase feelings of well being and have an impact on treatment of attention disorders in children.

Inspired by these concepts, we have been ideating the concept of parks for the community; parks so dense that they are rightful of the name ‘Oxygen Parks’. In May 2019, we had the opportunity to turn our dreams into reality through the ambitious Mission Million Campaign launched by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation. The Science City Oxygen Park development project is a collaborative initiative of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, The Serenity Trust and Acacia Eco.

• The Oxygen Park has 25,000 trees in a space of about 3 acres.
• More than 45 different tree species have been used.
• The idea was to cover 65% of the space in thick forest, remaining 15% in individual trees, shrubs and grasses and balance 20% in lawn, walkways and utility areas.
• Because of the green infrastructure elements used, the park is now host to several kinds of flora and fauna.
• The average height of the forest after the first year was 10-15 ft and after the second year was 20-25 ft. The water usage reduces by more than 80% after the second year.