From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Species in News; Eucalyptus;
Mains level: Conservation and Mitigation Strategies;
Why in the news?
The Kerala state government permitted Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to plant eucalyptus for financial reasons in 2024-2025. Environmentalists objected, citing forest impact and potential human-animal conflicts.
Reasons for Allowing KFDC to Plant Eucalyptus Trees:
- Financial Sustenance: KFDC was permitted to plant eucalyptus trees to support its financial viability.
- Existing Plantations: KFDC manages around 7,000 hectares of plantations, including eucalyptus, which contribute to its revenue generation.
- Rotation Age: Plantations like eucalyptus have specific rotation ages for harvesting, ensuring a continuous cycle of revenue generation.
Significance of Eucalyptus
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Why were environmentalists and social activists against the order?
- Ecological Impact: Environmentalists raised concerns about the adverse effects of eucalyptus plantations on natural forests and ecosystems.
- Human-Animal Conflicts: The proliferation of invasive species like eucalyptus was linked to increased human-wildlife conflicts, as animals ventured into human habitats in search of food due to habitat depletion.
- Contravention of Eco-Restoration Policy: Activists argued that permitting eucalyptus plantations contradicted the state’s eco-restoration policy, which aimed to phase out exotic species and replace them with natural forests by 2024.
- Invasive Species Management: The order was seen as undermining efforts to eradicate invasive species and mitigate their damaging effects on natural habitats and ecosystems.
Government Initiatives for Plant Conservation:
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Conclusion: The controversy over eucalyptus planting in Kerala reflects the balance between financial sustainability and ecological concerns. While eucalyptus offers economic benefits, it also poses ecological risks and challenges to conservation efforts.
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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