Source: hindu

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Context

India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 necessitates a multi-pronged strategy involving clean energy transitions, sustainable industrial practices and natural carbon sequestration through forest and tree cover expansion.

As climate change intensifies tree plantations offer an effective, nature-based solution to mitigate emissions, enhance biodiversity and ensure ecological security.

Current Status of Forest and Tree Cover in India

 India’s forest and tree cover is significantly below the national policy target.

 Urbanisation, deforestation and industrial activities contribute to ecosystem degradation.

Importance of Expanding Tree Cover

Climate Change Mitigation

Trees act as carbon sinks absorbing atmospheric CO₂.

Helps in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and controlling global warming.

Ecological Functions

Prevents soil erosion, recharges groundwater and improves soil fertility. 

Enhances resilience to extreme weather events such as floods, droughts and heatwaves.

Livelihood and Economic Benefits

Provides employment opportunities in rural areas (nurseries, agroforestry, conservation).

Supports timber, fruit and medicinal plant-based income.

Enhances Agricultural Resilience

Agroforestry integrates trees into farming, improving yields and resilience.

ICAR study: Agroforestry increases farm incomes by 20–30%.

Government Policies and Initiatives

These initiatives aim to restore ecosystems, reduce pressure on natural forests and involve communities, farmers and industries in afforestation.

Role of Industries and Carbon Markets

Corporate Sector Involvement

CSR initiatives include tree plantation drives to offset emissions.

Aligning with ESG goals enhances investor confidence and global competitiveness.

Response to Global Carbon Regulations

EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (2026) to penalise carbon-intensive imports e.g., steel, cement. 

Indian exporters face pressure to reduce carbon footprints to avoid tariffs.

Carbon Credits and Market Mechanisms

Indian companies investing in afforestation projects to earn carbon credits under Verified Carbon Standard and Clean Development Mechanism. 

Challenges in Expanding Tree Cover

Recommendations

Establish a National Carbon Market

Implement a transparent carbon registry.

Define clear roles under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Enable trading of domestic carbon credits and participation in global markets.

Provide Financial Incentives

Tax rebates, subsidies and low-interest loans for afforestation and agroforestry.

Incentivise private sector participation and CSR alignment.

Promote Agroforestry and Community-led Models

Train farmers and rural workers through capacity-building programs.

Create market linkages for forest-based products to enhance rural income.

Strengthen Monitoring and Verification

Use remote sensing and GIS technologies to track forest growth and carbon sequestration.

Ensure transparency and accountability in plantation drives.

Integrate with Urban and Industrial Planning

Mandate tree plantation norms in urban master plans and industrial green belts.

Encourage green building certifications that include urban forestry.

Sources:

hindu