فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Fez – Amid rising temperatures and escalating climate change challenges, voices are growing louder calling for a reassessment of the current afforestation policy in Moroccan cities, particularly in Fez, which has witnessed a significant shift in the types of trees planted in its public spaces.
From Lush Shade to Ornamental Palm Trees
Fez, Morocco’s spiritual capital, was once renowned for its shade-giving trees lining its streets and squares, providing a comfortable environment for residents and visitors alike. However, recent years have seen a municipal shift toward replacing these shade trees with palm trees, valued for their aesthetic appeal but lacking sufficient shade, negatively impacting citizens’ comfort and the city’s atmosphere.
“Plant a Tree, Not a Palm” Campaign Calls for Reconsideration of Albizia Trees
An environmental activist group has launched a campaign under the slogan “Plant a Tree, Not a Palm – Trees Provide Shade and Greenery,” urging those responsible for parks and green spaces to reconsider their choices and prioritize Albizia trees, which are considered an ideal shade-giving alternative for urban areas.
Advantages of Albizia Trees
Albizia trees offer several features making them well-suited for city environments:
- Rapid growth, enabling quick environmental benefits.
- Broad, spreading canopy that provides extensive shade over several meters.
- Evergreen foliage, maintaining beautiful green leaves year-round, enhancing urban aesthetics.
- Climate adaptability, thriving in diverse Moroccan climatic conditions.
Environmental and Social Benefits
Albizia trees play a vital role in:
- Reducing urban temperatures through their wide shade.
- Minimizing dust storms and airborne particles.
- Improving air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen.
- Creating natural social spaces where people can gather for relaxation and interaction.
Tangible Reality and Urgent Need
Photos circulating on social media show citizens gathering under large tree canopies, highlighting the urgent need for more shade trees in public areas. This reality confirms that trees are not merely decorative but essential environmental and social assets that enhance quality of life.
Demands from Civil Society
Residents and environmental activists call on local authorities to:
- Reevaluate the current afforestation policy.
- Prioritize shade-giving trees in future projects.
- Develop a gradual plan to replace palm trees with Albizia trees.
- Involve the community in decisions related to green spaces.
Conclusion
Afforestation in Moroccan cities remains a critical issue requiring a comprehensive vision that addresses citizens’ needs and contemporary environmental challenges. While palm trees hold cultural and aesthetic value, the pressing need for shade and thermal comfort makes Albizia and other shade trees the more practical and beneficial choice for a sustainable and livable urban future.
Returning to shade-giving trees is not merely a nostalgic look to the past but a forward-looking vision for greener, more vibrant cities.
from: fes news
