Yerevan Residents Demand Halt to Tree Felling and Unhealthy Pruning
Yerevan, March 15 – The “Nature for Health” initiative has issued a statement and launched a petition addressed to the Yerevan Municipality, demanding an immediate cessation of tree felling and unhealthy pruning practices within the city. The initiative underscores that these actions have become a catastrophic threat to the city, exacerbating environmental and public health issues.
The petition calls on the municipality to stop the ‘tree slaughter’ and the planting of trees unsuitable for Yerevan’s climate, which fail to meet the capital’s green zone requirements. The initiative emphasizes that the current green space per person in Yerevan is significantly below the required 28.8 square meters, failing to meet both international and local standards.
Environmental and Health Concerns
The lack of green spaces and trees has led to severely polluted air, with dust concentrations exceeding permissible limits, as confirmed by the Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center. This alarming data highlights the direct impact of inadequate green infrastructure on air quality and public health.
Another impending disaster, according to the initiative, is the severe lack of shade during the summer heat. Last year, the scarcity of shade was evident, and this year is expected to be even more brutal. They note that in direct sunlight, temperatures can reach up to 50°C when the air temperature is 35°C, whereas temperatures in the shade remain cool and comfortable.
Visual and Psychological Impact
Beyond environmental and health concerns, the city also suffers visually. The lack of greenery, coupled with the prevalence of stone and, more recently, actively constructed glass buildings, creates an oppressive atmosphere. This not only detracts from the city’s architectural appeal but also generates a psychologically stifling feeling for residents.
The “Nature for Health” initiative therefore demands that the Yerevan Municipality immediately cease the felling of trees and undertake proper organization of greening and irrigation in desolate areas. Their message is clear: “A tree is life.”
The petition can be joined via a provided link, urging all concerned citizens to support the cause and advocate for a greener, healthier Yerevan.
