Variety of flora and fauna species makes up the environment of Amsterdam. Along with the municipality, the residents of the city also work towards conserving the ecology of Amsterdam. If you are visiting Amsterdam, do not forget to check out the Artis zoo, the oldest in Europe and home to a variety of animals.
Amsterdam Environment
In Amsterdam, environmental pollution is lesser as compared to other European cities. Amsterdam has about 200,000 trees consisting of lime trees and elm trees that flank the canals of the city. Several measures like planting of trees, setting up of parks and other such steps have been taken by the city government to protect and preserve the environment of Amsterdam. Damaging trees and gardens is a criminal offense in Amsterdam. Trees can be cut only for the purpose of studies and surveys. That too requires a legal grant.
Fauna in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city where the greenery of its environs is complemented by a wide range of fauna species that inhabit the region. The fauna of Amsterdam includes 34 species of mammals, 140 species of birds, 6 species of frogs and salamanders and 60 species of fish.
Artis Zoo of Amsterdam
A large number of animals are found in the Artis zoo in Amsterdam. It is the oldest zoo in the whole of Europe and contains dogs, cats, snow leopards,pandas,
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penguins etc. The zoo holds the European Endangered Species Program for the preservation of native species that are rapidly disappearing and also tries to preserve domestic and farm animals like cows, sheep, ducks and goats.
The city consists of 'green roads' for the benefit of animals living in the city. Moreover, there are 'animal highways' which are grassy and which run parallel to the main highway. Also, 'eco-ribbons' are found all over the city connecting the gardens, tunnels and embankments. Such measures have led to the return of squirrels, foxes, salamander and hedge hogs into the city.
Dealing with Floods
A major environmental hazard in Amsterdam is floods. The city is very flat and low and just a few meters above sea level. This makes Amsterdam prone to floods which not only harm city life but also the ecology of Amsterdam. In order to prevent flooding of lands, the city has resorted to hydraulic engineering and construction of artificial lakes that would reserve excess water.
It is a densely populated city where a large number of people live and work. The municipality therefore concentrates on the protection and conservation of the city environment. Environmental policies see to it that the environment in Amsterdam remains in good condition.
But along with that the people residing in the city also make voluntary efforts to keep their city clean and in good condition.
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