malvernmugadzikwa
Andrew Mangwarara
DURING my recent visit to Bulawayo, I discovered that the city is abreast with the greening concept.
After the wonderful tour, I can safely say all local towns and cities have a thing or two to learn from the City of Kings.
I will discuss this issue in more detail in my other instalments. Today, I wish to focus on the benefits of plants.
Planting more trees and other vegetation can help reverse weather patterns for the good of the environment.
The ultimate benefit of plants is that they purify the air we breathe by absorbing carbon dioxide and giving out oxygen.
Nowadays, our biggest concern is the buildup of carbon dioxide from motor vehicles and industry.
Plants will help reduce global warming.
They also collect dust, ash and other particulate matter on their leaves and, thus, reduce pollutants in the air we breathe.
Contaminated soils are cleaned by plants as they absorb pollutants like metals, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, fuel hydrocarbons and excess amounts of phosphorus or nitrogen.
Besides environmental benefits, plants are also important from a health point of view.
It has been proven that plants in the workplace reduce stress and provide health benefits such as lowering blood pressure, releasing muscle tension and increasing positive feelings.
This naturally translates to increased productivity.
Research has apparently shown that workers with a view of nature experience less headaches and other illnesses, compared to those without it.
Regular gardening also provides good exercise, especially activities like planting, digging, mixing soil, mulching, weeding and raking.
Another study suggested that plants help reduce crime. It is said more trees and grass in an inner city apartment building favours lower crime rates.
Community gardens can serve to bring people together in a neighbourhood. They can have a positive impact on community cohesion.
Furthermore, plants can add value to a property. Beautified properties cost more compared to those without good landscaping.
Large plants also lower energy bills by cooling a structure, thereby reducing air conditioning costs.
Similarly, plants help in biodiversity conservation. Forests are vibrant ecosystems that support a wide range of plants and animal species.
Reforested areas become sanctuaries for endangered species and contribute to the conservation of biodiversity hotspots. They also help in stopping soil erosion and improving soil structure.
Plants act as natural filters, purifying water as it passes through the ecosystem.
Trees reduce the risk of landslides, mudslides and flooding, which can destroy communities. So, let us go green and benefit from the many advantages of vegetation.
If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on the number above. Feedback: [email protected] or sundaymail@ zimpapers.co.zw
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