Eco-scientists assert that the Himalayas, a hub for biodiversity that is home to thousands of plant, animal, and bird species, are essential in controlling India’s climate and environment. However, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change are posing growing dangers to these mountains, jeopardizing biodiversity and the welfare of those who depend on them.

On International Mountain Day (December 11), environmentalists draw attention to these issues and state that increasing forest cover can be one of the most practical and affordable ways to lessen the effects of climate change. This is especially crucial in the Himalayan region, where forests store over 62% of the region’s carbon and are vital for both carbon absorption and storage.

“Glaciers are melting more quickly in the Indian Himalayas region as a result of warming rates that are higher than the world average. This is directly linked to the significant loss of forest cover, with Himalayan states in India reporting a loss of 1,072 square kilometers of forest” said environmentalist Pradip Shah, co-founder of the social enterprise Grow-Trees.com.

Given the significance of afforestation initiatives in the area, Mr. Shah notes that Grow-Trees.com has already started the “Trees+ for the Himalayas project” which is being carried out in six villages in Almora, Uttarakhand, and 17 villages in Nainital. Amla, Banj, Bakian, Bhatula, Bhimal, Majuna, Glaucus Oak, Jamun, Himalayan Mulberry, and Indian Horse Chestnut are among the four lakh trees that will be planted as part of the effort.

“Such initiatives that concentrate on the Himalayan region have the potential to improve local ecosystem resilience and aid in carbon sequestration. Increasing the amount of forest cover also lessens the area’s susceptibility to the rapidly intensifying effects of climate change. We can also guarantee the preservation of mountain ranges for future generations by actively involving local communities in each stage of the tree-planting procedure” said Mr. Shah.

Regarding the project’s revolutionary effect on nearby communities, Pramod Kumar, the range officer for Nathuwakhan village, claims that in addition to improving the area’s aesthetics, the project has given many residents work opportunities.

Bhim Singh, a 52-year-old inhabitant of Bareth hamlet, feels that his community has benefited immensely from the Trees+ for the Himalayas project.

Priyanka Dutta