Haryana’s New ‘Tree Act’: Addressing the Decline in Green Cover

Haryana, a prosperous state in India, has been facing a decline in its green cover due to urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation. To combat this issue, the state government has proposed a new Tree Act that will promote afforestation and ensure sustainable development.

Key Provisions of the Tree Act

The Tree Act proposes the mandatory planting of a certain number of trees during the construction of new buildings and the requirement for industries to maintain green belts around their premises. The act also emphasizes the importance of planting native species of trees, which will help preserve the state’s biodiversity.

Importance of Green Cover for the Environment and Public Health

The decline in green cover has led to serious environmental problems, including air pollution, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. The Tree Act is expected to mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation by promoting afforestation. Increasing green cover has also been proven to improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and provide ecosystem services that are vital for the survival of various species.

Potential Economic Benefits of the Tree Act

The Tree Act could have positive economic benefits for Haryana. Increasing green coverage could improve the quality of life for its citizens, boost tourism, and increase property values. Moreover, the act could also contribute to the achievement of India’s commitment to increasing its forest cover to 33% of its land area by 2030, as part of the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Challenges and Considerations for Effective Implementation

Although the Tree Act is a significant step towards promoting sustainable development in Haryana, effective implementation is crucial for its success. The state government needs to involve all stakeholders and ensure public participation to make the initiative sustainable in the long run. Moreover, the government needs to ensure the use of appropriate species of trees and their survival through proper maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the proposed Tree Act in Haryana is a significant step towards addressing the decline in green cover and promoting sustainable development. The act is expected to mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation, while also having economic benefits. However, its success will depend on effective implementation, public participation, and the use of appropriate species of trees. The Tree Act could contribute to Haryana’s commitment to achieving India’s goal of increasing forest cover, as well as promoting sustainable development for the benefit of its citizens.

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