19th July 2024 (11 Topics)
1
Jul
2
Jul
3
Jul
4
Jul
5
Jul
6
Jul
8
Jul
9
Jul
10
Jul
11
Jul
12
Jul
13
Jul
15
Jul
16
Jul
17
Jul
18
Jul
19
Jul
20
Jul
22
Jul
23
Jul
24
Jul
25
Jul
26
Jul
27
Jul
29
Jul
30
Jul
31
Jul
The issue with tree planting schemes
You must be logged in to get greater insights. click here to login
Context
Tree planting schemes are a popular method for forest restoration and biodiversity support. However, these initiatives face challenges related to ecological balance, community participation, and post-planting care. The emphasis on tree planting must be critically evaluated to ensure it contributes effectively to environmental conservation.
Challenges with Mass Tree Planting Initiatives:
- Neglect of Local Ecology: Many tree planting programs overlook local ecological contexts, often leading to adverse effects on native plant and animal habitats, as observed in grasslands and certain animal habitats.
- Lack of Community Involvement: These initiatives frequently suffer from limited community participation, which is crucial for the success and sustainability of restoration projects.
- Post-Planting Measures: Without adequate post-planting care and monitoring, the survival and growth of planted saplings are compromised, diminishing the long-term benefits of these drives.
Global and National Examples of Tree Planting Drives:
- Global Initiatives: Large-scale projects like the "One Trillion Trees Project" by the World Economic Forum, the "Great Green Wall of China," and the "10 Billion Tree Tsunami" in Pakistan have been criticized for promoting monocultures and lacking adequate post-planting care.
- Indian Context: In India, the Van Mahotsava program, initiated in 1950, aims at increasing forest cover. However, the country's challenges include forest encroachment and the loss of forest land for non-forestry purposes, complicating restoration efforts.
Strategies for Effective Forest Restoration:
- Comprehensive Planning: Restoration strategies should include adequate financial resources, technical considerations, and community engagement to ensure effective implementation.
- Alternative Approaches: Methods such as tree islands, which involve planting in small patches, may offer more cost-effective and ecologically sound alternatives to large-scale tree planting.
- Policy and Awareness: India’s policy changes and public awareness campaigns need to prioritize community participation and technical expertise to create resilient and diverse forest ecosystems.
UPSC Mains Questions:
Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of large-scale tree planting schemes in addressing forest degradation and promoting biodiversity.
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More
