Vertical gardens rise along EDSA

Who says you can't plant in the middle of the ever-busy EDSA?

Not taking no for an answer, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has recently launched a "re-greening" project along the traffic-heavy thoroughfare, with plants placed vertically.

"We want to revitalize Metro Manila's ecosystem against rapid urbanization and this planting of ornamental plants is a big help," MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said in a statement.

The greening project involves the installation of vertical plant boxes along EDSA, particularly on the tunnel walls, where green ornamental plants will be cultivated.


Aside from contributing to the beautification campaign in Metro Manila's most famous road, the "vertical greeneries" are also expected to reduce air pollution, Tolentino said.

"We're hoping that urban designers and architects will incorporate environment conservation in their infrastructure projects," he added.

Vertical gardens have so far been constructed at the underpasses of P. Tuason, Shaw Boulevard and Ayala, led by MMDA's Landscape Management Division.

Aside from the vertical gardens, plant boxes will also be put up on 900 lamp posts along EDSA, Tolentino said. Sidewalks and median islands will undergo repair and improvement.

"This re-greening project will go beyond Edsa and will be replicated in other corridors," the MMDA chief stressed.
He pointed to a recently passed MMDA resolution approving the implementation of the re-greening program for Metro Manila.

"Promoting a clean environment is one of our top priorities," Tolentino said.

"We do not only direct traffic, we are also doing our share to conserve and protect the environment and maintain the healthy urbanization of Metro Manila," he added.

article from http://ph.news.yahoo.com/vertical-gardens-rise-along-edsa.html