Yerevan, Armenia – As global and local water resources continue to diminish, Yerevan is strategically adapting its urban greening initiatives by prioritizing the selection of drought-resistant and aesthetically pleasing tree species. This shift was highlighted today, December 22, by Armen Begoyan, director of the “Greening and Environmental Protection” CNCO, during a press conference.
Adapting to Water Scarcity: A New Approach to Tree Selection
Begoyan emphasized that for the past two years, the organization has been meticulously choosing tree species that can withstand arid conditions. For urban pavements and parks, the focus is not only on drought resistance but also on selecting trees with large canopies and significant ornamental value.
“We are constantly criticized for prioritizing the ornamental beauty of trees, but that is not the case,” Begoyan stated. He pointed to the example of Judas trees (Cercis species) planted on Tumanyan Street. “These trees, while beautiful, are also highly drought-resistant. Even if we were to water them only once a month or not at all, they would still survive. The Victory Park serves as a vivid proof of this; extensive studies were conducted, and in some unwatered sections of the Botanical Garden, only these Judas trees remained green amidst the dried-up vegetation.”
Scientific Expertise Guides Urban Greening
Begoyan further clarified that tree selection is not based on individual preferences. “If people think that someone here chooses a tree for planting based on their taste or preferences, then no. There is a professional institution with 1,000 employees, and within it, a large group of scientists who are responsible for selecting the tree species,” he asserted.
He underscored the importance of scientific research and expertise. “Tree species have been cultivated and tested by the Botanical Institute for decades. Who better than Jirayr Vardanyan, the scientific director of the Botanical Institute, can tell us which tree species perform best in Yerevan? Or who better than foresters can advise on which trees to use for our forests?”
Begoyan expressed concern over the public’s perception of greening efforts. “Today, we have a situation where anyone who has an apricot tree in their garden considers themselves a greening specialist. But dear friends, urban greening is a serious science, and I assure you that everything that is done is carried out under the guidance of scientists,” he concluded.
The statements from the “Greening and Environmental Protection” CNCO director underscore Yerevan’s commitment to sustainable urban development, balancing environmental challenges with aesthetic considerations through a scientifically informed approach.
Source: https://news.am/arm/news/921699.html
