Competition to green our balconies
There is an increasing trend in Europe to motivate people to green their balconies. This in fact creates more appealing surroundings that motivate people to walk and cycle. Balconies might be one of the most viable spots to green one’s private space whilst making it visible and beneficial to the surrounding community. Furthermore, following the COVID 19 restrictions, balconies seem to have become the new platforms for entertainment and social interaction, which emphasises the importance of rethinking how we design and build these outdoor urban spaces.
Green balconies have been proven to play an important part in the public well-being in highly-urbanised zones and improving climate challenges. Building green balconies is relatively easy as there are only some minor variables to consider such as wind, isolation, shade, ground levels and precipitation. Ten minutes of gardening could reduce stress levels and restore the positive energy of residents.
What if local councils could create some sort of local competitions to motivate people to take the lead in making our cities more aesthetically pleasant for us to walk, jog and cycle?
13 Comments
I love this idea, I believe this can significantly improve the aesthetics of our cities. An example in Malta is the city of Birgu . I believe this can create interest for people to walk and spend more time in their localities.
1Oh Birgu is lovely with their beautifully decorated balconies and stairs. Locals there seem to really take pride in this. Well done Birgu. Another beautiful example is Rabat with some small alleys looking so pretty. It is one of my favourite routes to walk :)
1This idea is brilliant. Apart from improving the visual aesthetics of the roads we live in, the initiative would also inspire people to learn how to grow their own food. It would also mean having a break from your busy day to look after your greens! Let's keep working for a greener Malta!
1Greening of the bus stops/shelters should be next, just like the vertical garden on Hamrun bypass, since an excuse has been rising not to plant trees on sidewalks.
1Not only balconies but also house tops.
I love thie idea 💡💓
1Was thinking long time about it. Local council should make it compulsory, i think. So many empty balconies. In our street, for example the only balcony with plants is our :-)
1Love this!
1Yes I would love to join this competition. In Malta we can work together and create a new green revolution with simple action! This beautiful island needs green.
1It has been scientifically proven that 10 minutes of gardening a day reduces stress. It is so important to surround ourselves with greenery especially where we spend most of our time :)
0yeah that would be really amazing ;) did not think about that. In my opinion, it would make it a better experience to wait for the bus
0I am not in favour of making anything compulsory to be honest. Then it becomes more of a chore than something one does from the heart. It is up to each individual to realise what impact this would have on his or her life. I guess once the street starts getting populated with more plants in balconies, more of the neighbours will get motivated ;)
0Great Idea all for it! And maybe there could be some plant tips too for the not sogreen thumb people like me !
1definitely. One of the aims of the campaign should be educational ;)
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