New Delhi, August 12, 2023. Disturbing statistics from a survey by Global Forest Watch reveal that between 2002 and 2022, India experienced a loss of 393,000 hectares of humid primary forest, constituting 18% of the nation's total tree cover decline during that period. The area of humid primary forest saw a staggering reduction of 3.9% within this time frame. Furthermore, from 2001 to 2022, India's tree cover shrank by 2.19 million hectares, equivalent to a 5.6% decline since 2000, resulting in 1.11 gigatons of CO₂ equivalent emissions.
As the nation gears up to celebrate its 76th Independence Day on August 15th, adhering to the theme of 'Nation First, Always First', Grow-Trees.com has taken a resolute stance to address this environmental crisis through an ambitious target: planting 3 million trees.
Pradip Shah, co-founder of Grow-Trees.com, emphasizes, "The motto 'Nation First, Always First' extends to safeguarding India's biodiversity, which is crucial for our collective survival. Afforestation must be acknowledged as a shared duty, for only when individuals, communities, and diverse stakeholders unite, can we sow the seeds of hope for a greener tomorrow for generations to come."
Since its establishment in 2010, Grow-Trees.com has remained steadfast in its mission to make a transformative impact. By planting millions of trees and restoring ecosystems, the organization has ignited positive change within local communities and wildlife habitats. Their commitment is reflected in various project-specific initiatives such as Trees for Elephants (Singhbhum, Jharkhand, India), Trees for Tigers (Ramtek, Maharashtra), Trees for Tribals (Eastern Districts, Tamil Nadu), among others.
According to Pradip Shah, "It is also important for us to raise awareness about the importance of plantation activities among urban citizens who are struggling in the absence of green lung spaces with smog and acute pollution. If all citizens pledged to plant just one tree, they would facilitate carbon sequestration, increase green cover in heat islands, help reduce air pollution and enhance water tables. We encourage everyone to take the pledge with us and be a part of a momentous movement that aims to create a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship in India."
The organization's accomplishments are noteworthy, having planted over 18 million trees across 23 states. These trees, upon maturity, are projected to absorb a substantial 370 million kilograms of CO₂. Moreover, Grow-Trees.com is actively contributing to the preservation of animal corridors and uplifting rural communities by generating 1,445,818 days of employment through plantation and maintenance activities. Through their unwavering dedication, Grow-Trees.com is sowing the seeds of a greener, more sustainable future for the country.
