DURING 2023, two Innovation Challenges were launched at the Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, by UpLink, the open innovation platform of the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Challenge One was the ‘Sustainable Forest Economy Challenge’, which called for ecopreneurial start-ups providing sustainable forest management and technology solutions.
Challenge Two focussed on the ‘Forest and Health’ and innovative approaches to adopting forest health as a pathway to tackling the adverse effects of being disconnected from nature in our modern world and tackling urban and rural environments with a community-centred and biodiversity protection approach.
21 Top Innovators were selected across both Challenges, with 147 quality-led submissions by organisations worldwide.
Selected as one of the Top Innovators in the category of ‘Forest and Health’, The Forest Bathing Institute is delighted to have been asked to join the UpLink Innovation Network of the World Economic Forum, which offers a community of entrepreneurs, pioneers, fund owners and industry experts who are contributing to the sustainability of the planet and have this as one of their core values.
The Forest Bathing Institute’s vision is to replicate the Japanese research conducted over the last 30 years and to advance the practice of Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing through its university research and community outreach programmes based on this established nature-based therapy.
Co-Founder Gary Evans said, ‘We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded this global recognition by such a prestigious body. It will significantly impact building on the enormous amount of work we have been doing over the last six years, particularly with global government bodies, universities and the healthcare sector.
This recognition will, I hope, provide additional partnership and collaboration opportunities with other organisations from around the world, something we have been developing very actively as an organisation.’
Olga Terebenina, Co-Founder, commented, ‘When we established The Forest Bathing Institute, we set ambitious goals and a clear vision. It is wonderful to have been invited to join such a high-profile network – our hard work and focus will continue, as Gary and I can see the difference that nature connection makes to countless people.’
We’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in our work. The Forest Bathing Institute is looking for more Forest Bathing Guides interested in training to help charities and vulnerable members of society. In addition, we have an extensive government and corporate programme. Please get in touch with us for more information.