create your own greenspace
We share information on gardening and the environment in Zambia; including useful online resources from around the globe, to empower people with the knowledge they need to create their own green spaces around their homes and in the surrounding community areas.
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'Greenspace' is any area vegetation set apart for recreational or aesthetic purposes in an otherwise urban environment.
As towns and cities grow we need to be more intentional about protecting or creating these areas of greenery around us.
Photo Credit: Maggie Banda (@maggie_banda_photography)
Some the challenges of maintaining natural environment in Zambia.
12 REASONS TO CREATE MORE GREEN SPACES IN ZAMBIA
Diminishing Tree cover in Zambia
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From 2002 to 2020, Zambia lost 26.6kha of humid primary forest, making up 1.4% of its
total tree cover loss in the same time period.
Total area of humid primary forest in Zambia decreased by 8.0% in this time period.
Challenges of rapid urbanisation in Zambia
2.
Rapid population growth and urbanization has made our cities fail to meet the needs of their residents, and hence affected the quality of life that an average urban dweller enjoys. It has also put a strain on the exploitation of natural resources available in the country.
Source: Rapid urbanization in Zambia. The challenges facing our cities and towns
Yohane Tembo
Natural ecosystems threatened by urban development and land use
3.
The need to conserve biodiversity in Zambia derives its importance from the fact that economic and livelihood activities of the general population depend on natural resource utilisation
Source: CBD Action Plan Zambia
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Air purification as plants filter out dangerous chemicals
Greenspace can also boost the immune system by providing exposure to a helpful bacteria.
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Wildlife exists within urban areas and greenspaces allow animals to find food and shelter in trees and other protected areas.
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Seasonal fruit can be picked from fruit trees can provide year-round nutrition.
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Natural spaces as well as manicured ornamental gardens provide aesthetic beauty
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Many of our indigenous fruits are such as the baobab are naturally high in nutritional content and are actually being packaged as supplements.
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Gardening at home is one of the most emotionally fulfilling pursuits and is actually recommended as a low cost therapy. Why not create your own greenspace?
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Recreational use as outdoor spaces provide areas for people to relax and socialise.
Psychological wellness as we naturally relax around green plants. Gardening is also used as mindfulness therapy
Some of Zambia's natural ecosystems are unique and are immense interest botanically.
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Established gardens can transform a house and actually can increase the value of property.
Natural forests continue to be used as a source of natural medicinal herbs and non-commercial food products.
watch and learn
We regularly post videos on our Youtube channel relating to gardening and the environment in Zambia. We hope to give contextual information and expert tips that show practically how you can garden in our local environment.