by Kyaw Zin Tun
YANGON, June 5 (Xinhua) -- On World Environment Day, residents of Myanmar's most populous city Yangon are purchasing potted plants from shops due to the city's limited soil compared to rural areas, embracing a trend of urban greenery.
Zin Aung, a 30-year-old Yangon resident, was among those who bought potted plants on World Environment Day. "Today, I bought a new potted plant. There are also many potted plants grown in my apartment. They keep us cool on hot days."
"Trees give us oxygen. When I lived in the village, I grew trees in my yard. Now in the city, I grow potted plants because there is not enough space," he said. "I love potted plants because they improve air quality and improve my living spaces," he added.
Ma Soe Yu Maw, 38, expressed her satisfaction with her recent purchase, saying: "I bought a fragrant plant for my office. Plants are beneficial. I enjoy watering them in the morning. They freshen the environment."
Ko Kyaw Min Han, 49, a frequent buyer of plants, shared his joy on Wednesday, saying, "I've been coming here to buy plants for about 10 years. Plants make us happy and satisfied. I'm always happy to see them in my office in the morning."
"I believe the joy of planting trees outweighs any costs involved. That's why I encourage everyone to cultivate plants."
Ko Thaw Gyi, a bonsai grower, also told Xinhua on Wednesday: "Indoor plants purify the air. I grow bonsai and cactus. On World Environment Day, I would like to encourage people to grow at least one plant, ideally five per person."
U Maung Maung Aye, 63, a nursery owner, said on Wednesday: "I sell potted fragrant plants and orchids. It is very good to grow potted plants, especially in urban areas like Yangon."
"Every house should have potted plants. They cool the air, purify it and make homes beautiful," he said, stressing the importance of trees in mitigating climate change and restoring the environment.
The 2024 World Environment Day falls on Wednesday. This year, the theme of World Environment Day is land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience. ■