Why is it in the news?

• As the government and the Lok Sabha commence a new term, it is imperative that green concerns are prioritized.
• To avert drastic environmental degradation, it is crucial to swiftly implement green policies while progressing towards achieving a middle-income economy. Addressing these pressing issues is of utmost importance.

More about the news

• The country must proactively work towards reducing emissions amid escalating energy consumption. Additionally, building resilience, ensuring food security, and providing essential resources are critical components of climate change mitigation.
• With natural disasters becoming more frequent, strategies to shield vulnerable communities from harm, such as updating building regulations and preserving natural storm barriers like mangrove forests, must be prioritized.

Can green credits enhance India’s forest conservation efforts?

• Firstly, India has one of the lowest levels of green cover per capita globally, with only 28 trees per person, contrasting starkly with Canada’s 8953 and China’s 130 trees. Despite claims of increased forest cover, actual significant forest preservation has decreased significantly over the past two decades. Legislative acts like the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023 need reevaluation to ensure robust protection of forests.
• Secondly, rapid urbanization has led to unlivable conditions in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, characterized by alarming levels of pollution and water scarcity. The degradation of rivers and depletion of green spaces have exacerbated these issues, prompting an urgent need for comprehensive sewage treatment and conservation measures.
• Thirdly, the Himalayan region faces serious environmental challenges due to climate change, including glacier retreat and altered rainfall patterns. This poses a severe threat to water and food security in the region. Neglecting the concerns of mountain communities and failing to prioritize biodiversity conservation aggravates these issues.
• Finally, public participation in decision-making is crucial and currently lacking in India. Environmental assessment processes have been reduced to mere formalities, disregarding public protests and critical feedback. Strengthening EIA mechanisms and restructuring the decision-making process is essential to prevent further environmental degradation.

Way Forward

• Efforts aimed at achieving sustainable development must prioritize genuine conservation initiatives over profit-driven schemes like green credits and compensatory afforestation.
• Strengthening enforcement mechanisms and ensuring environmental law compliance are vital to fostering a sustainable future.
• These urgent environmental issues not only affect millions of lives but also determine the nation’s long-term health and sustainability.
• Prioritizing these matters in election manifestos and governmental agendas is crucial to safeguarding the environment for future generations.