The Parks and Street Lights Office in Taipei has launched an innovative initiative to revitalize discarded orchids and reduce waste. The six-month trial program encourages residents to donate unwanted orchids, particularly epiphytic varieties like butterfly orchids, dancing-doll orchids, and Dendrobium orchids.
The program addresses the common issue of individuals receiving orchid bonsais as gifts but facing challenges in caring for them. By donating these orchids, residents contribute to the sustainability of the program, which seeks to repurpose and integrate these flowers into various parks across the city.
Professional caretakers affiliated with the Parks and Street Lights Office will oversee the maintenance and care of the donated orchids. The chosen varieties thrive without soil and flourish in humid conditions, often attaching themselves to other plants.
The program aims to collect a maximum of 1,500 orchid plants, which will find new homes in selected parks, including the Shilin Residence Park, Tianmu Park, and the Youth Park. Beyond enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these urban green spaces, the initiative also lightens the burden on citizens who may find it challenging to nurture these delicate plants.
By encouraging community participation and sustainable practices, Taipei’s Orchid Renewal Program represents a commendable step toward creating a more environmentally conscious and visually appealing cityscape.
