Gujarat Sees Major Tree Cover Rise Outside Forest Zones
Gujarat has emerged as a national frontrunner in expanding its green cover, demonstrating a remarkable increase in tree coverage outside designated forest areas. Recent data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) 2023 report reveals a significant growth of 241.29 square kilometres in tree cover within the state’s non-forest regions. This notable achievement not only positions Gujarat as a leader in national afforestation efforts but also underscores a pivotal shift towards integrating environmental sustainability into broader developmental strategies, aligning with the critical goal of fostering zero net carbon and eco-friendly cities across the nation.
The FSI 2023 report highlights a substantial improvement in Gujarat’s overall green footprint. The state’s total tree cover has risen from 2.80% of its geographical area in 2021 to 3.38% in 2023. Furthermore, the comprehensive green cover, encompassing both forest and tree areas, saw an increase from 10.41% in 2021 to an impressive 11.03% in 2023. These figures are not merely statistical points; they represent a concerted effort by the state to combat climate change and enhance ecological balance, contributing to a healthier environment for its citizens and future generations.
While Gujarat’s total recorded forest area stands at 21,870 square kilometres, accounting for 11.14% of the state’s geographical expanse, the growth outside these traditionally protected zones is particularly significant. The forest cover itself is measured at 15,016.64 square kilometres (7.65%), with tree cover adding another 6,632.29 square kilometres (3.38%), culminating in the aforementioned total green cover of 21,648.93 square kilometres, or 11.03%. This diversified approach to greening, focusing on areas beyond conventional forests, proves vital for urban and rural ecological resilience.
This commendable progress aligns with the objectives of the National Forest Policy of 1988, which mandates that a minimum of 33% of the country’s total geographical area should be under forest or tree cover. While Gujarat, like many other states, still has a considerable journey to reach this national target, its recent trajectory indicates a strong commitment and effective implementation of greening initiatives. The biennial assessments conducted by the Forest Survey of India, Dehradun, under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, serve as crucial benchmarks for gauging progress and strategising future interventions.
A key driver behind Gujarat’s success is its proactive participation in national campaigns designed to boost green cover. In the fiscal year 2024-25, Gujarat secured the second position nationally in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree for Mother) campaign, with an astounding plantation of 17.48 crore (174.8 million) trees. This mass movement, which encourages individuals to plant trees in honour of their mothers, demonstrates the power of community engagement and emotional appeal in driving large-scale environmental action, fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards nature.
The expansion of tree cover outside forest areas is particularly impactful for creating more sustainable and livable urban environments. Trees in urban and peri-urban landscapes contribute significantly to air quality improvement by absorbing pollutants, reducing the urban heat island effect, and enhancing local biodiversity. Such initiatives directly contribute to the vision of creating equitable and healthy cities, where green spaces are accessible to all, promoting public well-being and a stronger connection between communities and nature.
Moreover, the emphasis on increasing green cover extends beyond mere aesthetics. It plays a critical role in carbon sequestration, a fundamental step towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Growing more trees helps absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide, mitigating the impacts of climate change. This commitment to large-scale afforestation underscores Gujarat’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its contribution to national climate goals, setting a positive precedent for other regions to emulate.
Gujarat’s sustained efforts in expanding its green cover reflect a broader understanding of environmental responsibility as an integral part of holistic development. The growth in tree cover, particularly outside traditional forest boundaries, is a testament to effective policy implementation, robust public participation, and strategic resource allocation. This green trajectory not only strengthens the state’s ecological resilience but also contributes significantly to India’s national environmental objectives, fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
