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| Fostering Green Growth: Insights into India's Green Credit Programme |
Madhya Pradesh Emerges as Pioneer in Government's Green Credit Initiative
Madhya Pradesh (MP) has taken the lead in spearheading the Centre’s Green Credit Programme (GCP), boasting approval for over 500 land parcels dedicated to tree plantation across 10 states within the past two months alone. This concerted effort has earmarked a substantial 10,000 hectares of land for the programme's endeavors, aimed at rejuvenating degraded forest areas.
With 954 hectares of degraded forest land approved for plantation, MP stands at the forefront, closely followed by states like Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, and Assam. The programme has also gained traction in Bihar, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Odisha, where land parcels have been sanctioned for similar green initiatives.
Under this initiative, various public sector entities have been enlisted to undertake plantation activities on degraded forest land, earning green credits in the process. The overarching goal is to foster ecosystem services and promote non-carbon environmental initiatives for the betterment of local ecosystems, soil quality, and water resources.
Tree species selection for each designated land block is meticulously executed through consultations with relevant forest departments, selecting entities, and the esteemed Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). The emphasis lies on fostering assisted natural regeneration while prioritizing indigenous species, ensuring maximum ecological impact tailored to each site's unique characteristics.
Emphasizing the significance of species selection tailored to specific sites, Union Environment Secretary Leena Nandan underscores the critical role of such measures in maximizing environmental benefits.
Understanding the Green Credit Programme
The Green Credit Programme (GCP) represents a market-driven initiative aimed at incentivizing voluntary environmental actions across diverse stakeholders, including individuals, corporations, communities, and private sector industries. Introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change on October 13, 2023, the program seeks to galvanize participation in environmentally sustainable practices such as waste and water management, alongside tree plantation efforts. This initiative is integral to the government's broader Lifestyle for Environment (LIFE) movement.
Enabling individuals and corporations to earn and trade green credits for afforestation endeavors on degraded forest lands, the programme aligns with the Green Credit Rules, 2023, notified under the Environment Protection Act 1986.
Exploring the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE)
The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) stands as an autonomous organization under the aegis of the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change in India. Established in 1986, its primary mandate is to advance the realm of forestry research within the country. Governing a network of 9 research institutes and 4 advanced centers, ICFRE plays a pivotal role in steering research, training, and extension activities in forestry, wildlife, and allied disciplines. Notably, it actively contributes to policy formulation and implementation pertaining to forestry within India.
Unveiling the Significance of Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem services encompass a myriad of benefits bestowed upon humanity by nature, ranging from the provision of clean water and air to climate regulation, pollination, and cultural significance. These services underpin our well-being, economic prosperity, and social development, highlighting the intrinsic interplay between humans and the environment. Thus, comprehending and conserving ecosystem services is imperative for fostering sustainable resource management practices and safeguarding biodiversity for future generations.