Original Article in Mandarin by: Teng Kok Liang
Green scenery always makes people feel refreshed. It is wrong to think
that living in high rise building prohibits us from keeping plants. On the
contrary, there are many indoor plants that we can grow to keep our environment
green and beautiful.
Penang Green Expo 2012 which was held in September 2012 displayed
a variety of indoor plants. The Expo also provided an opportunity to learn more
about choosing the correct species for planting and decorating the home.
For clean and fresh air, the
Cactus, Chlorophytum or Scindaprus tops the list as natural purifiers. These
plants should not be underestimated as they can help lower the hazardous
substances released from electronic appliances and at the same time help purify
air pollutants.
An alternate choice is the Sansevieria
and Boston fern. These plants contain natural plant anion that absorbs Benzene
and Trichloroethylene from the air to restore good air quality.
For spacious homes, Yellow Palm and Corn Plant is a good choice to help
remove hazardous substances and impurities from the air.
The above recommended plants need
a combination of the right flowerpot, the right soil and the right fertilizers
to achieve the best environmental results. Using correct biodegradable
flowerpot, the right soil and non-chemical fertilizer with the certification of
Baba Inside makes the environmental friendly home garden authentic.
We also need to identify the right place for the right plant at home.
For example, Sansevieria is suitable to be planted in the toilet as it needs
little sunlight. The leaves can absorb moisture and odor from the air as well
as act as a natural deodorant. However,
moving the plant for direct sunlight at regular intervals makes the plant
robust.
Some plants may also be placed in the balcony, roof top or corridor.
To avoid accidents, make sure the plants are not blocking the passage and can
withstand strong wind.
Plants are not only good to look at - it also provides us a cleaner
and greener environment. The Penang State Government has made a lot of effort
in promoting green projects in the state and Penang Local Government Committee
Chairman Chow Kon Yeow has
written a reply to the State Assembly stated that in year 2011, the Penang
Municipal Council (MPPP) has planted a total of 4313 trees in the Island,
Province Wellesley Municipal Council (MPSP) has planted a total of 8734 trees
in Province Wellesley and the Penang State Forestry Department has planted a
total of 8988 trees in the state.
The Penang State Forestry Department also provided 5770 tree saplings
to government departments, private companies, JKKKs and NGOs to encourage trees
planting and promote greener environment.
The authorities at Municipal
Council of Penang (MPPP) spearheaded a Greening Project at three locations.
Since 2010, a total of 150 trees were planted along the divider of Carnarvon
Street; another 101 trees along the 550meter long divider in Weld Quay in year
2011; and this year, 280 trees were planted along the 1.4km divider in Dato
Keramat Road.
Those who travel along Jalan
Masjid Negeri, Jalan Scotland and Jalan Utama enjoy the cooling effects of the
shady trees. We need to thank our forefathers who had the foresight to preserve
these century-old trees. Penang, the Pearl of the Orient is not only proud of her
heritage buildings in George Town but also these trees which have witnessed the
progress of this city in leading the way towards a cleaner, greener and
environmental friendly Malaysia.
We can improve our environment
from home. Let’s grow plants together!
*BABA Inside is a guarantee
standard for organic vegetables, ornamental plants, organic fertilizer, soil, biodegradable
flowerpots and other green products. This certification meets the standard of production
and identification of organic products.
For details: www.baba.com.my
