Hindu Editorial Analysis : 19-July-2024
The world is facing a serious problem with forest degradation. This issue is primarily caused by the uncontrolled exploitation of forest resources and unsustainable practices. According to the World Bank, about 10 million square kilometers of forests have been lost since the 20th century. To combat this, the United Nations has declared the decade from 2021 to 2030 as the “Decade of Ecosystem Restoration,” with a goal to restore 350 million hectares of degraded land worldwide.
India’s Response
Van Mahotsava
In India, the importance of trees in maintaining ecological balance has been recognized for decades. In July 1950, the Indian government initiated Van Mahotsava, or the “festival of trees.” This event promotes tree planting and has been celebrated annually during the first week of July. The efforts from these celebrations have led to notable improvements in forest area across the country.
Restoration Goals
India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded forests by 2030. While tree planting is a part of this strategy, it also emphasizes:
- Sustainable Practices: Ensuring that the methods used do not harm the environment.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting various species within forest ecosystems.
- Holistic Ecosystem Management: Addressing all components of the ecosystem, not just trees.
Understanding Tree Cover vs. Forest Cover
It’s crucial to differentiate between tree cover and forest cover. India has around 93,815 hectares (2.85% of its area) under tree cover, whereas forest cover spans 7.08 lakh hectares (21.54% of the land). Forests are complex ecosystems that support many species and provide essential services.
Global Tree Planting Initiatives
In recent years, tree planting has gained popularity through various initiatives:
- One Trillion Trees: A global effort by the World Economic Forum to plant one trillion trees.
- Great Green Wall of China: An ambitious project to combat desertification.
- 10 Billion Tree Tsunami (Pakistan): A commitment to reforest degraded areas.
- Bonn Challenge: A global goal to restore 150 million hectares of deforested land by 2020 and 350 million by 2030.
Challenges to Restoration
Ecosystem Restoration vs. Tree Planting
India’s Green Credit Programme has shifted its focus from merely planting trees to restoring entire ecosystems. This change highlights the need for biodiversity and soil health, not just tree count.
Financial Sustainability
Funding is essential for successful tree planting efforts. Without adequate financial resources, even the best initiatives can fail.
Technical Considerations
Planting trees involves more than digging holes. Important factors include:
- Soil Quality: Healthy soil is crucial for growth.
- Species Selection: Choosing the right species ensures better survival rates.
- Maintenance: Regular care is necessary for long-term success.
Community Participation
Local communities play a vital role in nurturing trees. Their involvement fosters a sense of ownership and helps ensure the sustainability of the initiatives.
Quality Over Quantity
Focusing on the quality of planting is more important than simply increasing the number of trees. This ensures higher survival rates and better long-term growth.
Monoculture Risks
Some planting initiatives promote monoculture, which can harm biodiversity and reduce carbon sequestration.
Government Programs in India
India has several related programs to support forest restoration:
- Compensatory Afforestation: Planting trees to compensate for forest land lost to development.
- National Afforestation Programme: Aimed at increasing forest cover nationwide.
- National Mission for a Green India: Focused on afforestation and biodiversity conservation.
- Nagar Van Scheme: Creating urban forests and green spaces.
- Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme: Protecting existing forests from fires.
- Urban Tree Plantation: Encouraging tree planting in cities to improve air quality and enhance life.
Green Credit Program
The Green Credit Program incentivizes voluntary tree planting in degraded areas. By participating, companies and industries can earn credits while contributing to environmental conservation.
Why In News
The world has witnessed significant forest degradation due to the exploitation of forest resources and uncontrolled, unsustainable practices that have severely damaged forest landscapes, leading to a loss of biodiversity and essential ecological services.
MCQs about Understanding Forest Degradation and Restoration
- What did the United Nations declare the decade from 2021 to 2030?
A. Decade of Climate Change
B. Decade of Ecosystem Restoration
C. Decade of Sustainable Development
D. Decade of Biodiversity Protection
- What is the primary aim of India’s Van Mahotsava?
A. To reduce air pollution
B. To promote industrial growth
C. To celebrate tree planting
D. To improve agricultural practices
- Which initiative is aimed at restoring 150 million hectares of deforested land by 2020?
A. One Trillion Trees
B. Bonn Challenge
C. Great Green Wall of China
D. Green India Mission
- What does the recent shift in India’s Green Credit Programme emphasize?
A. Increased funding for tree planting
B. Ecosystem restoration over mere tree planting
C. Monoculture planting techniques
D. Urban tree plantation efforts
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