Trees for Ecotourism™ project is a giant leap towards a greener Uttarakhand

March 1, 2024 S Ranjita India 0

Trees for Ecotourism™ project is a giant leap towards a greener Uttarakhand

Over 2,50,000 indigenous trees have been planted already to counter the impact of climate change, developmental activities, and mass tourism

Climatologists in India have been attributing increasing anomalies of weather and uneven monsoon patterns, including rain deficits and flash floods, to climate change. Urgent action is needed to prevent worsening conditions that threaten biodiversity, lives, and livelihoods. Recent disasters in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand highlight the urgency of fortifying eco-sensitive regions against climate change, development, and tourism impacts.   

In August 2023, the National Green Tribunal directed the Border Roads Organization (BRO) to plant at least 10,000 trees within a month in Uttarakhand to compensate for hundreds of trees felled during the construction of a road from Simli to Gwaldam. However, social enterprise Grow-Trees.com has already been working towards expanding the green cover of the state via the ‘Trees for EcotourismTM project.

Trees for Ecotourism™ project is a giant leap towards a greener Uttarakhand

It is currently actively engaged in afforestation activities in Tiyan, Devalsari, Kandari, Sunara, and Lodhan villages in Naugaon Block, Barkot Tehsil, and Uttarkashi. Pradip Shah, the co-founder of Grow-Trees.com, says, “Climate change cannot be addressed in isolation because it is not just an environmental issue but has profound human ramifications. In Barkot, we are not only working towards repairing the ecological deficits but also supporting the local population, including underserved women, with livelihood opportunities.


The project aims to demonstrate that when the balance between the environment and tourism is restored, both can thrive in tandem and the project targets to plant around 4,75,000 trees, out of which over 2,50,000 indigenous trees have already been planted to safeguard the integrity of the state’s ecosystem. Such projects are much needed at a time when Uttarakhand has suffered an unprecedented loss of green cover.

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Sakkarapani And Team To Plant 6 Lakhs Trees To Set Elite World Records  An expanded green cover is all set to absorb the post Diwali pollution in the capitalAn expanded green cover is all set to absorb the post Diwali pollution in the capital National Tourism Day (January 25) is also an occasion to recognise the impact of afforestation on India’s growing tourism sector In 2022, the Ministry of Tourism formulated a national strategy for sustainable tourism, pinpointing seven key areas crucial for inclusive, carbon-neutral, and resource-efficient tourism. Among these strategic pillars, biodiversity protection takes centre stage, highlighting the importance of planting more trees and conserving existing green cover. On National Tourism Day, Pradip Shah, environmentalist and co-founder of Grow-Trees.com explores how tree plantation not only aligns with the national strategy but also plays a vital role in preserving the ecological balance of our tourist destinations. Promotes sustainable tourism There is a growing trend to focus on eco-tourism while visiting hill stations and verdant, eco-sensitive regions where trekking and similar activities are allowed. The tourism department and tour operators also bear the responsibility to safeguard natural resources and ensure that the wilderness remains as enjoyable in the future as it is now. Planting more trees and enhancing the green cover in such areas can ensure that the benefits of a healthy environment are extended to the next generation. Planting and preserving trees enhance the basic tenets of responsible tourism. Mitigates the effects of mass tourism The rich biodiversity of forested zones and wildlife sanctuaries is increasingly drawing a large number of visitors. However, the surge in mass tourism to these areas also brings forth major challenges, including excessive land use, pollution, fodder extraction and heightened human-wildlife conflicts. Environmental organisations are actively addressing these issues. Recognising the strong connection between tree planting and ecological health, Grow-Trees.com has launched projects like 'Trees for Ecotourism™️' in the forest region of Gnathang near Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary in East Sikkim. The primary goal of such projects is to improve forest health while alleviating the adverse impacts of mass tourism. Fights Climate Change In its 2023 report, 'A Healthy Forest for Healthy People,' the UN emphasises that sustainable forest management and the prudent use of resources are pivotal in the battle against climate change. Trees help us to combat climate change mainly due to their natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. In cognisance of this fact, Grow-Trees.com has planted more than 19 Million trees nationwide and in Africa. Once fully grown, these trees will absorb 380 Million kg of CO2, annually showcasing the crucial impact of trees in addressing climate change. Mitigating the effects of global warming also contributes to creating an ecologically balanced environment, which is of utmost importance for the growth of the tourism sector. Enhances scenic beauty With an endless variety of species, trees offer an aesthetic and calming green cover to urban zones. Some of the most famous and tourist friendly cities in the world are known for their gardens, tree-lined avenues and public parks abundant with foliage with diverse green textures and flowers. In the concrete jungles of big cities, they also help to reduce the heat island effect, regulate microclimate, mitigate air pollution and improve hydrology. Green zones in cities make them livable and pleasing not just for the residents but tourists who may be visiting or passing by. Promotes job creation Tree planting projects create multiple job opportunities for local communities. Once completed, such projects need regular monitoring, watering, and preservation, ensuring that the local populations will remain connected to their maintenance. Conserving trees and biodiversity also creates a feeling of ownership among them. This active engagement of local communities is crucial in tourism as it helps in developing a welcoming and hospitable environment and facilitates vibrant cultural exchange for tourists to experience.On National Tourism Day, discover how tree plantation boosts green tourism Lunar LandingJapan’s Giant Leap: Astronaut Poised for Lunar Landing in Historic US-Led Project A thriving ecosystem can create vibrant tourism hotspots," says environmental expert Pradip Shah‘A thriving ecosystem can create vibrant tourism hotspots,’ says environmental expert Pradip Shah  
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