“He who has no dreams, let him go to a beautiful forest to have many!”
The Emerald City is one of the most well-known fictional places in the entire world. It is featured in the famous children’s novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. In the novel, written by L. Frank Baum, the city is described to be crafted out of green glass, divine emeralds and other precious treasures. Dear Reader, what if I told you that many Emerald Cities exist in our world?
In today’s world, astounding buildings are being built, and technology is advancing and developing, slowly rising to seize the throne in the future. Everywhere, we see garish lights or enormous screens. But let us whisk ourselves into a forest. There, the contrast is clear. We don’t see the towering architecture anymore, instead, we see what was there before us. Nature. We see the beautiful creations, not made by men but Mother Nature herself, we see sweet flowers and elegant structures with shoulders of green. We see beauty. Now, Reader, not all diamonds have to be shiny and hard. That’s why forests should be considered as the world’s jewels. This is because they are valuable, and they are essential to us. Forests are cities of emeralds.
Therefore, the International Day of Forests came to life on the 21st of March. This day is to encourage biodiversity and celebrate all types of forests, such as rainforests. This day is to help spread awareness of today’s environment and help promote improvement of nature. However, Reader, you may be wondering, why should we commemorate the International Day of Forests? How are forests beneficial?
Firstly, forests are a pleasure of daily life. They are transcendent creations, and can be used as ornaments in a country, adding pops of colour in grey and white scenes. But there are more to them. Secondly, forests are our source of living, the lungs of the earth, they produce oxygen for us to breathe. Moving on, they also give us food and drink. Fruits, crops and spices are all found in forests, making the forest like an unlimited market. Furthermore, forests contain waterfalls, and these rushing streams are a source of water to many. Additionally, they can affect someone’s personality positively. According to the UN, studies have discovered a link between forests and reduced levels of obesity and crimes. In a way, they are hidden superheroes. Speaking about superheroes, they moreover help us fight climate change, though they do it quietly.
To summarise, forests are heroes that are working every day to change the world, so let us support them by celebrating the International Day of Forests. And on 21st of March, try piecing together a leaf scrapbook or planting a tiny garden! Every little action counts. Let us preserve and grow forests always. Let us make our Emerald Cities stand tall and proud, always beaming and glistening. Let us not transform the emeralds into stones.
Written By: Nga Yu En (Lydia)
Edited By: Lim Hao Yue