The Environment vs Development Dilemma

Recently, Nashik has made it to the national fame. Many century-old trees were cut for the developmental needs. The citizen of Nashik and nature-lovers have strongly opposed this act of Municipal Corporation. The conflict has spurred discussions on sustainable development, with many urging the government to use urban planning techniques that incorporate trees into city landscaping rather than removing them. 

But this kind of 'development' is taking place all over the world. In major cities like Delhi, Kolkata & Mumbai, the air quality index regularly exceeds hazardous level. Lifelines of civilization, our sacred rivers, now hardly flow. Climate change and global warming are no longer distant warnings, they are lived realities. Our water bodies are drying up, air is becoming unbreathable and forests are vanishing. And we are relentlessly extracting oil, water, coal, minerals, and metals from Mother Earth. Forget food, if current trends continue and no drastic action is taken, nearly 40% of India’s population may lack access to potable water by the year 2030.

In recent years, we have witnessed a peculiar and persistent conflict - between development and environmental conservation. On one hand, development demands infrastructure like roads, electricity, housing, factories and amenities, all of which rely on natural resources like water, forests, minerals and land. Unsurprisingly, their extraction leads to pollution, shrinking rivers, deforestation and a polluted ecosystem. On the other hand, when we move towards environmental conservation, it often seems that the pace of development begins to slow down. As if there exists a natural conflict between the two. We find ourselves caught in a kind of a moral dilemma, where every choice comes at a cost. Prioritizing development often comes at the expense of nature, while prioritizing conservation can hinder economic progress and the fulfilment of basic human needs.

Does development conflict with the environment? There is a widespread belief that it is so. This explains why there is a constant refrain from some economists and policymakers about the rigid environmental laws of the country stalling ‘development’ projects like industrial corridors, highways and other infrastructure projects. The tension between economic development and environmental conservation is not unique to India, but the scale of projects undertaken in the country has drawn significant attention. India, one of the fastest-growing economies, requires improved infrastructure, energy projects, and urban expansions to meet the demands of its population and global market competitiveness. However, this rapid growth has placed immense pressure on natural ecosystems, particularly forests. Several large-scale development projects have been flagged for causing extensive tree felling: Highway Expansions, Urbanization, Industrial & Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Mining Projects.

Its true, the environment faces grave challenges, but we must also recognize that millions of people around the world still struggle to meet their most basic needs. Can we expect someone who doesn’t have two meals a day to understand and act upon ideas like 'Sustainable development' or 'Carbon footprint'?

Once a society meets its fundamental needs, it naturally aspires for a better life. This desire is neither surprising nor wrong. A person who owns a bicycle may dream of a motorcycle, the motorcyclist of a car, the car-owner of a yacht. Similarly, someone in a mud house may long for a concrete house, and so on. This is the nature of human aspiration to seek comfort and progress.

But the question is not whether these desires are valid. The real question is: Can nature support them all? Are Earth’s land, water, air, minerals, and energy sufficient and everlasting to fulfil the growing aspirations of every individual? Resources are finite, but human desires can be infinite.

This is where we need a holistic vision: one that upholds both environmental sustainability and human development. If natural resources are used judiciously, equitably and with shared responsibility, we can protect the environment and address deep-rooted issues like poverty, inequality and the very basic nature of the human i.e. growth. In Indian philosophy, there is no division between human and nature. Nature is not just an external reality, it is an extension of our inner being. When we call Earth 'Mother', it is not a poetic metaphor, but a deep experiential truth. She nourishes, shelters and sustains us. Caring for the environment does not mean halting development; it means choosing a form of development that walks hand-in-hand with nature. Incorporating principles like refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle and embracing a zero-waste lifestyle is not just ethical; but also, is essential. Energy use must be mindful; water and electricity must be conserved. Simplicity is not a regression. In fact, it is an elevation of thought.

Nature can flourish without us, but we cannot survive without nature. Let us not forget that if we continue to exploit nature, and if - out of balance - it begins to respond with equal intensity, the outcomes will be beyond our control. Just as humans are breaking their natural boundaries, if animals and ecosystems were to do the same, the consequences would be devastating.

The path ahead lies not in choosing between environment and development, but in realigning development with the deeper rhythms of nature. Only then can we ensure a future that is just, joyful and sustainable for all. A clean and green environment is also important for a healthy workforce. As soon as we introduce this perspective to development, it readily becomes evident that development and environment can never disagree with each other. Rather, the two must work together. Any project that seeks to bring in economic benefits needs to weigh in the associated costs to the environment. Only when the benefits outweigh all the costs, including the environmental costs, should the project go through.

The new approach calls for three important steps. First, development planning by policymakers need to internalize the environmental concerns. Second, existing tools for quantifying environmental costs, such as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and green accounting standards, need to be developed further and made more user-friendly. Third, a renewed focus on interdisciplinary courses on environment, economics, accounting and development is urgently needed. 

While the need for development in India is undeniable, the current trajectory, which involves extensive tree felling and deforestation, raises significant environmental and ethical concerns. It is crucial for the Indian government to reassess its development strategy, ensuring that economic growth is achieved without sacrificing the country’s invaluable natural resources. Sustainable development, which balances growth with environmental preservation, must be the guiding principle if India is to secure a healthy and prosperous future for its people and ecosystems.

Today, we celebrate the 16th anniversary of Gifting Trees...! 😍

वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् !

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ is a Sanskrit phrase found in Hindu texts such as the Maha Upanishad, meaning, "the world is one family". Today, as we face global challenges like climate change, environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity, this ancient wisdom becomes more relevant than ever. It promotes a global perspective and prioritizes the greater good over individual or family interests. It encourages considering the welfare of others, fostering global solidarity and responsibility on various issues, including climate change, sustainable development, peace and tolerance of differences. It reminds us that our existence is woven into a larger, intricate tapestry of life that transcends borders, species and differences. 

The philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam does not limit itself to human solidarity but extends to the entire natural world. Trees, animals, rivers, oceans, mountains - all are part of this one cosmic family. They do not merely exist for human benefit; they have intrinsic value and their own roles in maintaining the balance of nature. The world thrives because of this delicate interconnectedness. Any disruption to one part of the system can ripple outward, affecting all life, including ourselves. In simple terms: no one can sustain alone. 

Nature’s Self-Sustaining Systems

Nature, in its pure form, is the epitome of self-sustainability. Every element of the natural world plays a role in a grand cycle of renewal:

• Forests regulate the climate, produce oxygen, purify air, encourage rainfall and prevent soil erosion. They provide habitat for countless species, ensure biodiversity, and act as carbon sinks.
• Oceans absorb a significant amount of the world’s carbon dioxide and regulate weather patterns.
• Soil nourishes plants, and in return, plants protect and enrich the soil.
• Animals and insects participate in pollination, seed dispersion and maintaining the health of ecosystems.

These systems operate harmoniously without human interference. When left undisturbed, nature has the incredible ability to regenerate, repair and sustain itself. Every fallen leaf, every decaying animal, every raindrop and every gust of wind plays its part in the endless cycle of life and death, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

The Disruption of Balance

However, humans - driven by self-centered motives and unchecked greed - have increasingly disrupted this equilibrium. Our activities have introduced pollutants, destroyed forests, overexploited resources and driven countless species to extinction. Despite experiencing firsthand the adverse effects of pollution, global warming and climate instability, concrete corrective actions are lacking.

One of the gravest challenges that we currently face is waste management. The exponential rise in solid and liquid waste generation has overwhelmed natural systems. Rather than reducing the waste production, even many developed countries rely on temporary solutions like incineration. While incineration may reduce the volume of waste, it releases harmful pollutants into the air, exacerbating environmental problems instead of solving them. Landfills, another common method, leak toxic chemicals into the soil and groundwater. Our failure to implement sustainable waste management systems highlights a deep disconnect from the values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

A Call to Action

If we are to survive and thrive, we must realign ourselves with nature’s principles. Here’s what we must urgently pursue:

• Reduce Waste Generation: Adopt minimalistic lifestyles, prioritize recycling and promote industries that use sustainable materials.
• Conserve Forests and Biodiversity: Protect existing ecosystems and support reforestation & biodiversity conservation initiatives.
• Promote Eco-friendly Technologies: Invest in clean energy, waste-to-energy plants and technologies that emulate nature’s zero-waste processes.
• Educate and Spread Awareness: Instill the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in educational curricula and community programs.
• Support Circular Economies: Shift from a linear ‘take-make-waste’ economy to a circular economy where resources are reused, repaired and regenerated.

Nature, when respected and protected, has the innate power to sustain itself and all life within it. The ancient idea that the Earth and all its beings are one family is not a sentimental ideal; it is a fundamental truth critical for our survival.

We are not outside nature; we are part of it. Our wellbeing is deeply intertwined with the health of forests, oceans, animals, insects and the soil beneath our feet. Recognizing this interconnectedness and acting on it with responsibility and compassion is not optional - it is essential. The time has come to live by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, not just in words, but in every choice and action we take. 

On the occasion of 15th anniversary of Gifting Trees, let us embrace the wisdom of the past to heal the future - because when we protect nature, we protect ourselves.

Our Ecosystems : Forests!

Of course, we need to plant native trees... But we need to understand that there is more to forests than just a massive collection of trees. It is a natural, complex ecosystem, made up of a wide variety of trees, which support a massive range of life forms. Apart from trees, forests also include the soils that support the trees, the water bodies that run through them and even the atmosphere or air around them. Forests of the world are a natural wonder that we, humans, have sadly taken for granted.

Environmental activists consider forests as one of the top 5 natural resources on Earth. This is rightly so, its high time why we should immediately stop its' destruction.

Forests are hugely important for life on Earth. This is because it serves as an ecosystem and sustains life for millions of animals, birds and aquafauna that live in the rivers & streams running through these forests…Biodiversity! Forests serve two important roles viz. Productive role and Protective role. While we all know about the products like Food, Shelter, Clothing, Fuel and Timber that we get from forests along with Non-timber Forest Products; we often take granted their priceless protective services. 

Climate Improvement

Forest increase local precipitation by about 5 to 10% due to their aerographic and microclimatic effect and create conditions favourable for the condensation of clouds. Forests reduce temperature and increase humidity. It also reduces evaporation losses. Forests form an effective sink for the carbon dioxide produced as a result of animal respiration, burning of fossil fuels, volcanoes and other natural & human-induced activities. And if that is not all, a by-product of photosynthesis is oxygen.

Forests play a significant role in maintaining the CO2 balance in the atmosphere and purifying the air.

Trees and soils help regulate atmospheric temperatures through a process called evapotranspiration. This helps to stabilize the climate.

Soil and water conservation

Forests maintain the productivity of the soil through adding a large quantity of organic matter and recycling of nutrients. The leaves are used as manure. Tree crowns reduce the attack of rain and check splash erosion. Forests increase the infiltration and water holding capacity of the soil, resulting in much lower surface runoff. This in turn results in checking of soil erosion.

Forest checks floods too! Forests intercept 15 to 30% of the floods caused due to siltation of river channels & irrigation resources caused due to erosion. Forests and trees reduce wind velocity considerably, which causes considerable reduction in wind erosion; checks shifting of sand dunes and halts the process of desertification. Rapid siltation of various reservoirs in the country is the result of deforestation in the catchment areas of these reservoirs.

Forest protect us from physical, chemical and noise pollution, dust and other particulates and gaseous pollutants cause serious health problems. Forests protect as from these pollutants. Forest and trees provide shelter and wind break effect which is beneficial to agricultural crops, particularly in arid and semiarid areas and increase agricultural production.

Watershed

Forests serve as a watershed…the area of land that contributes water to a stream or river. Almost all water that flows in rivers & lakes ultimately comes from forest-derived water tables.

Wildlife Habitat and Ecosystems

Forests serve as a habitat to millions of animals. Animals form part of the food chain in the forests. All these different animals and plants are called biodiversity, and the interaction with one another and with their physical environment is what we call an ecosystem. Healthy ecosystems can better withstand and recover from a variety of disasters such as floods and wildfires.

Forests and biodiversity are the key to all life forms. The richer the diversity of life, the greater the opportunity for medical discoveries, economic development and adaptive responses to such new challenges as climate change. Uses of genetic diversity within forests enable the development of new medicines; progress in health care and science.

Looking at the importance of forests and trees, You can deduce the massive effects of deforestation and tree-cutting activities… Soil erosion, Disturbed Water Cycle, Loss of Biodiversity, Climate Change etc. But what we can not see or relate to is Loss of livelihoods of the people directly depending on the forests and loss of lives due to effects of deforestation like droughts, floods, human animal conflict, invasive dominance of a particular species.

Close to one billion hectares (2.5 billion acres) globally is estimated to be available for some kind of forest restoration. If only it were that simple.

So how to regrow a forest? : Get out of the way.

According to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the best thing we can do to regrow a natural forest is to stop interfering in the forest ecosystem. The nature will take care of the rest.

One needs to understand the types and importance of forests, the problem of deforestation and it's effects, as well as what we can do to minimize the consequences. Sometimes, we are overwhelmed by the extent of damage humans have caused, and we are not sure if an individual can make an impact.

Yes, you can!

There are millions of people just like you, who are learning about the issue and taking little steps to help. Additionally, many governments, organizations, and societies are making great strides in helping reducing deforestation.

But there is still a lot to do. On the 14th anniversary of Gifting Trees, let us discuss a few things you can also do to help...

Make a conscious effort to share information with friends and family members on deforestation and its' effects. Things work better when responsible people don’t give up. Stand up for what you believe in!

Reduce the use of artificial items, recycle more and re-use items. Wood, paper, plastics and many other things we use every day at home can be linked to natural resources being destroyed. This means that if we all recycle more, there will be less dependence on the environment (and forests).

Allowing degraded natural forests to re-grow is a more effective, immediate and low-cost method for removing and storing atmospheric carbon than planting new trees.

These forest ecosystems - the result of ecological and evolutionary processes and their natural patterns of distribution and abundance of plants and wildlife have greater resilience to external shocks. They can adapt to changing conditions and store more stable natural carbon stocks than young, degraded or plantation forests. Nowadays, Miyawaki forests have gained widespread attention as a promising approach to reforestation and biodiversity restoration. However, these newly planted forests(?) can not even match the natural forests, let alone be the substitute for them. Yes, trees must be planted & grown in urban settlements and industrial areas. But PLANTING TREES IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR NATURAL FORESTS..! Remember, "One can plant trees, but can not plant a forest!" 

Growing existing natural forests to maturity optimizes their biological sequestration potential to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As well as maximizing cost-effective and natural carbon sequestration, proforestation also provides other benefits such as clean water supply from filtration by tree roots. But the natural forests must grow naturally and not by introducing artificial plantations in a natural forest. Introducing non-native species and altering forest type or topography could disrupt existing ecosystems and ecological processes, potentially leading to unintended consequences.

Indigenous vs. Introduced Plants : The Ongoing Debate

Few months ago, I stumbled upon an article written by a representative of an ecological restoration firm that has been promoting native plant species for the past decade. The article sparked controversy by suggesting that non-native tree species need not be shunned altogether. Though the statement was not completely wrong, that article raised eye-brows of many nature-lovers as the statement was contradicting the very soul of that organization. 

So how do you decide what kind of tree to plant? Or perhaps, have you wondered, while walking down a city street or strolling through a park, why did we choose to plant a row of non-native Gulmohor or Rain-trees, instead of trees native to our region? This post aims to provide clarity on this topic by exploring the various factors that influence our tree-planting choices. 

At present, there is a debate on whether to plant indigenous trees or introduced/alien trees. Some favor indigenous native trees while others do not seem to bother about the species. But this debate should be considered from an environmental standpoint.

Different plants thrive in different regions of our country according to the nutrients, climate and habitat. These plants and the wildlife that depend on them create a rich ecosystem, and the introduction of an alien plants into this delicate balance is a matter of ongoing debate. Some say that many introduced shrubs, vines & trees that are naturalised in India, are useful. The examples include guava, custard-apple, grapes, sugarcane etc. But it should be noted here that all these plants are grown agriculturally, where their spread is controlled, carefully maintained. Furthermore, not all introduced plants are non-invasive or benign to the ecosystem.

Proponents of introduced trees argue that they provide shade, oxygen, and visual appeal through their colorful flowers. However, the problem arises when a single introduced tree species outcompetes ten native trees, leading to a tenfold reduction in carbon dioxide absorption and shade. Additionally, habitat loss for birds and pollinators can have devastating impacts on the ecosystem. Introduced species are often free from natural predators & pests, which makes them prone to becoming invasive, out-competing native flora for water and soil. This in turn drives away biodiversity and reduces the chances available for native species, leading to biological pollution. Introduced plants are often short-lived and brittle, making them susceptible to uprooting during storms. The leaves of trees like Eucalyptus and Mangium do not decompose easily and do not contribute to the production of organic fertilizer, resulting in soil pollution. 

While introduced trees like Gulmohar, Copperpod, Jacaranda and Spathodea may look beautiful, their ecological value is negligible. Although a few species of birds may perch on these trees, and pollinators like bees may occasionally be seen on their flowers due to a lack of other flowering species, it would be foolish to conclude that introduced species attract birds and pollinators. Many state governments have banned the cultivation of Eucalyptus due to the large amount of water it absorbs from the soil, which can exacerbate water scarcity issues in certain areas. Introduced species like Gliricidia, Mangium (Acacia Mangium), Earleaf Acacia (Acacia Auriculiformis) and Mesquite (Prosopis Juliflora) were brought to India from Australia and Mexico for rapid reforestation, timber, and fuelwood purposes. However, these same plants have now become a serious threat to ecosystems, competing with indigenous flora and fauna and disrupting nutrient cycling and hydrology. This impacts the overall economic stability of local communities and human health. Many of these species have aggressive root systems or produce a large number of viable seeds, both of which allow the plants to quickly invade the soils outside their growing areas. This resulted in almost destruction of the native Babool (Acacia Nilotica, or recently known as Vachellia Nilotica), which is an important tree species if dry regions. 

Trees native to a particular region have evolved to thrive in specific soil types, rainfall patterns, light availability, seed dispersal mechanisms, and other environmental attributes. In their native environment, these trees may provide cover, food, and habitat for birds, amphibians, insects, and mammals. The tree species that have been living in India for centuries and providing benefits not only to humans but also to wildlife and the ecosystem deserve priority. In fact, there are several fast-growing native trees in India that bear beautiful flowers. Native trees are more adaptable to their growing conditions and more resistant to disease than alien species that have only been introduced in recent decades. You can find the list of native trees here.

Several gardening enthusiasts and nature-lovers derive satisfaction from cultivating rare and uncommon plant species, which are not easily found in their vicinity. In fact, the introduction of new plants is a celebrated activity which delights many gardeners, and attracts media attention. These practices have contributed to scarcity of our own important native species in the urban areas across India. Sadly, it is now increasingly challenging to come across trees like Palash, Sita-Ashok or Kaim in the gardens of many cities. 

In conclusion, it is important to understand the impact of the trees we plant in our region. While non-native species may be visually appealing, they can have negative impacts on the local ecosystem. On the other hand, native trees have evolved to thrive in their environment and provide important benefits to both humans and wildlife. By prioritizing the plantation of native trees, we can promote a healthier and more diverse ecosystem while also supporting the local economy and preserving our cultural heritage. Though there is no need to hate the previously planted and grown non-native trees; at least now onwards, the plantation of any alien or foreign plant must be strongly discouraged. 

Today is 13th anniversary of Gifting Trees... Come, let us all take responsibility to protect our environment and choose the right kind of trees to plant for a sustainable future!

This Summer, Care for Trees?!

Just as we all are troubled by record-breaking temperatures every year, can you even imagine the sufferings of the trees and vegetation in our surroundings? Hot & dry summers can have an impact on your trees, especially when they are young and growing.

Based on NOAA's global analysis, the 10 warmest years on record have all occurred since 2005, and 7 of the 10 have occurred just since 2014. 2020 was the second-warmest year on record based on NOAA’s temperature data, and land areas were record warm.

Similar to the humans who find themselves lethargic and lifeless during these hottest summers, when water is scarce, the saplings you had planted last year also tend to deteriorate. Or when not taken care of in extreme conditions, die. 

At times like these, human intervention is key to helping your trees grow up healthy. Here are a few suggestions or tips which may help in protecting the saplings and young plants you love...

1. Mulch, a fresh layer!

Applying mulch provides some much-needed help for saplings, especially around the root area. Proper application of mulch is a good way to help young trees take in more water and set down strong root systems. Sufficient mulch of about 2 inches thick will not only retain the moisture, but also discourage the growth of weeds. Just do leave some space between the mulch and the base of the sapling.

2. Protect from direct sunlight

A shade net or any cloth for that matter can prevent your young sapling from harsh sunlight in the soaring heat. Shade cloth does not provide complete shade, but improves the diffusion of light and provides ventilation for the plants.

The cloth must be well-supported by 3-4 strong sticks or bamboo so as to act as a windbreak also. The sticks need to be inserted enough into the soil so that they stand strong against the winds. Then a shade cloth can be tied to these sticks in such a way that the plant receives sufficient sunlight, but harsh rays are blocked. Do make sure the plant growth should not be obstructed by the cloth. 

3. Water the plant!

Water the plants early in the morning or late evening when the temperature is not that high. Focus on the root zone to maximize the amount of water they get each time. Knowing how to water your plants properly should be your priority during the summer.

You may try keeping a perforated plastic bottle underground, which you fill every time. This, over a period of time, allows water to seep deeper into the ground, which encourages deeper root growth. 

4. Care of the soil

Soil is a vital part of the natural environment. It’s always better to check the surrounding soil of your plants. When the soil is extremely compact, it prevents the tree from getting the water and nutrients it needs. When the soil is sandy, it can not hold moisture and nutrients. The soil must be a good mix of these both impregnated with mulch so that earthworms can flourish in it. 

5. Watch out for signs of heat stress

Keep a sharp eye out for heat stress on particularly hot days. Common signs include drooping and wilting of the leaves. In case of heat stress, give your tree sufficient water to help it recover. 

A young plant must be taken care of during its first 3-5 years. Then it's just a piece of cake! We are doing the same and shall continue to do that. Today is the 12th anniversary of Gifting Trees... I think we have just begun!

Dridhataru...The Robust Tree!

The Button tree or Dhok (Anogeissus Pendula/धोक, काळा धावडा) is a beautiful, moderate-sized species. With or without flowers, the tree is known for grace and beauty of its silky foliage. In winters before falling, the leaves turn a beautiful yellowish red. Every time you visit the tree, it appears surprisingly different!

Dhok is often confused with well-known Dhvada tree or rather, is recognized as Dhavda. It has variable bark. Dhok has tiny fragrant flowers in dense clusters. It is a dominant species on sloppy & rocky soils, as nothing else can survive there. It coppices & pollards well and the coppice shoots are fairly fast growing, although the tree grows slowly. It fruits abundantly but has low germination rate. 

Despite having such a low regeneration capacity and a very tough growing conditions, the tree does something spectacular to regenerate. Mr. Pradip Krishen, the writer & environmentalist, finds the tree very unique and pretty. Under the soil surface, a tree sends out a horizontal stem, called a ‘stolon’ and from the end, a sapling roots. Such stems extend in every direction, spawning a colony of genetically identical trees. “It’s like the trees are holding hands. Button tree is more like a Banyan, which instead of sending aerial roots down, sends subterranean shoots up.” says Krishen. 

Dhok is a very important tree species of the fragile eco-systems. It is a drought hardy plant that yields excellent animal fodder and other products like green dye and tannins. The tree is also known for many medicinal properties and has uses for ailments like dysentery, gastric disorders, skin problems, cough or for its anti-oxidant properties. 

It has ecological significance for the Aravalli range and other hilly areas of the country, where it is difficult for other tree species to thrive. It is a hardy tree that can survive even in the extreme conditions.

Axlewood tree or Dhavda (Anogeissus Latifolia/धावडा, धव) is a similar beautiful species from same genus. It is a medium-to-large sized, deciduous tree.

It is one of the most useful multi-purpose trees in India. Axlewood also has tiny beautiful fragrant flowers in dense clusters. But flowerless tree is also equally attractive, mainly due to the bark. Its bark surface is smooth or with scales, pale to dark gray and is mottled in a characteristic pattern. It has somewhat similar flowers and fruits as that of Dhok. Leaves are nearly opposite on drooping branches. 

The drought tolerant tree is also fire-resistant, but does not tolerate water-logging. It is found on a variety of soils, but prefers deep alluvial soils. The tree’s robust nature gives it the Sanskrit name Dridhataru! :)

It is usually mentioned as a possible agroforestry species. Tussar silkworms are fed on its foliage, which is also used as fodder for cattle and buffaloes. Its flowers are an important pollen source for bees. The tree is a good survivor on eroded land. It is often used for river bank stabilization. The tree improves the quality of soil wherever planted. Axlewood tree contributes to soil nutrient cycle by exhibiting high leaf-litter decomposition rates. Its leaves contain large amounts of tannin. The tree is the source of Indian gum, also known as Ghatti gum. Ghatti gum is a good substitute for Gum-arabic and is used in printing, for confectioneries, in dye processes and as a binding agent in pharma industries. It also gives good quality charcoal.

Medicinally, the plant root pacifies vitiated kapha, vata and abdominal disorders. The bark cures vitiated conditions of kapha and vata, wounds and ulcers, inflammations, diabetes, haemorrhages, haemoptysis, diarrhoea, dysentery, haemorrhoids, skin diseases, liver diseases and general debility. Also it is reported to be used in treating snake bites and scorpion stings in India.

Axlewood can be propagated by seeds and coppices. The seeds are soaked in cold water for about 48 hours or 3-min hot water treatment is done for successful germination. The tree produces root suckers, coppices and pollards well.

Both these trees deserve far more attention as an ornamental and ecologically important trees. May be that's why these trees got their place on the 11th anniversary of Gifting Trees...! :-)

Teacher of the Year!

Once upon a time, there was a young and successful officer going to his village. He was driving a bit faster in his new BMW. He saw a boy calling for help on a turn. He thought he saw something but didn’t stop. Right then a brick hit his car. Angrily, the officer applied breaks, went back to grab the boy and started scolding him for the damages of his car. The boy pleaded, “I am really sorry sir! Please forgive me!! But I have to use that brick as no one was stopping. My brother fell from his wheelchair. He is hurt and I can not lift him by myself”. The officer went speechless, and was shocked to see his handicapped brother. He helped the boy. The boy thanked the officer with teary eyes and said,”May God bless you sir!” Yes, that brick may have caused some damages to his BMW; but also taught him a lesson - DO NOT GO very fast through life, otherwise just to draw your attention, someone will have to hit you with a brick!

Can You relate to the story?!

Well, we are just similar to that officer. We... Human beings often forget that we are largely dependent on Nature or Mother Earth and become ignorant towards her. We have been so reluctant and negligent to the preservation of natural resources and sustainable living that we had already forgotten about the dynamic equilibrium of Nature. The time has come when we are facing the increasing incidents of droughts, sun-strokes, cloud-bursts, floods, land-slides, pandemics and number of deaths associated with it.

Ecological Integrity refers to the ability of an ecosystem to support and maintain ecological processes and a diverse community of organisms. In simple language, ecosystems have integrity when they have their native components intact. So this ecosystem integrity underlines human health and development. It can help regulate diseases by supporting a diversity of species so that it is more difficult for one pathogen to spill over, amplify or dominate. Human-induced environmental changes modify wildlife population structure and reduce biodiversity, resulting in new environmental conditions that favour particular hosts, vectors and/or pathogens. The loss of habitat and biodiversity creates conditions for lethal new viruses and diseases to spill into human communities. And if we continue to destroy our lands, we also deplete our resources and damage our agricultural systems.

The WHO has declared the COVID-19 outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The outbreak has resulted in the untimely death of tens of thousands worldwide, a global economic recession and the collapse of health-care systems among many of the hardest-hit countries. To be clear, the pandemic is a tragedy and has affected human life very badly, overloaded hospitals, unemployment, economic disaster and it has caused depression in millions of people and many countries around the world have lockdown & quarantined its citizens to slow down the spread of the virus. While the origin of the outbreak and its transmission pathway are yet to be discovered, there are few important points worth reviewing...

Outbreaks that emerged or re-emerged recently are Ebola, bird flu, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), the Nipah virus, Rift Valley fever, Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), West Nile virus, Zika virus disease, and now, the Corona virus. They are all linked to human activity. 

According to www.worldenvironmentday.global, the Ebola outbreak in West Africa was the result of forest losses leading to closer contacts between wildlife and human settlements; the emergence of avian influenza was linked to intensive poultry farming; the Nipah virus was linked to the intensification of pig farming and fruit production in Malaysia and emergence of bat-associated viruses was due to the loss of bat habitat from deforestation and agricultural expansion.

The Covid-19 lockdown imposed throughout the world has struck a chord in every one of us and it has made us thinking how nature is so important for our day to day living. It gave us the time to stop, analyse our deeds and  introspect. It has made us see that our actions can very well impact the Earth’s sustainability.

Traffic-free roads, plane-free skies and widespread brick-and-mortar closings have made the planet a beneficiary of the coronavirus pandemic - but only in the short term. Amid the destruction, the pandemic has brought forth wins for a world that leaves room for humans and animals to coexist happily.

From breathing pure air to greener trees, spotting various wildlife into the urban settlements; there are some important environmental changes that we have seen for this lockdown in India, which are improvement in air quality, reduction in air pollution and water of Ganga became fit for drinking in Haridwar. Animals have more room to roam due to decreased pollution and human interference. Dolphins are spotted near Kolkata ghats, increased numbers of flamingos in Mumbai and Arrival of endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles ashore along the coast of Odisha to dig their nests & lay eggs; are some of the examples.

It’s safe to say that no one would have wanted for emissions to be lowered this way. COVID-19 has taken a grim global toll on lives, health services, jobs and mental health. But, if anything, it has also shown the difference that communities can make when they look out for each other - and that’s one lesson that could be invaluable in dealing with climate change.

May this COVID-19 pandemic will end soon. But what we learn out of it will decide our future. Are we going to repeat all those mistakes we used to do before or we going to change our detrimental actions? We all know, digging up fossil fuels, cutting down forests and sacrificing the planet’s health for profit, convenience & consumption is driving catastrophic climate change. It’s time to abandon this destructive system and find sustainable ways to inhabit our planet. This lockdown have made us realize that Life goes on even in the reduced speed of development...or rather, its more pleasant too! So why not to lead a simpler life voluntarily; rather than waiting for some tiny virus to force us to do the same?!

It is impossible to predict where the next outbreak will come from or when it will be. Growing evidence suggests that outbreaks or epidemic diseases may become more frequent as climate continues to change. By embracing a simpler way of life characterized by a compassionate & ecological consciousness, frugal consumption and inner development; people can change their lives and, in the process, move the world toward sustainable prosperity. The novel corona virus has taught us so many things. 

The question is – Are we ready to learn?!

Today is 10th anniversary of Gifting Trees... Let us join hands for embracing Voluntary Simplicity..!

What would happen if all the trees were destroyed?

We love trees and the fauna associated with trees. But there are some self-centred individuals who find trees full of leafy trash and insects.

"What difference will a tree sapling will make?", is what few say.

Well... We are not merely planting a tree-sapling. We believe, we are planting a hope...as I said in the beginning of this initiative.

And here is an eye-opener !

If all the forests were destroyed the world would practically be destroyed because if there are no trees there will be no humans and no humans is no world.

The removal of all the trees on earth would be a disaster. Whole ecosystems would collapse and many, many species of animals would disappear for lack of food, shelter, cover, nest sites and a host of other critical elements to their existence. Certainly other plants (mostly invasive weeds) would fill in behind the trees, but if the trees go, life as we know it will disappear and something else will have to take its place.

Trees carry out a very important function. They remove Carbon dioxide from the air when they grow! If trees are destroyed, then eventually there would be less plants to trap this CO2 in their growth. Without trees, the CO2 level would rise very quickly and as CO2 is a green-house gas then the temperature on Earth would rise as well leading to super global warming! CO2 is also acidic and the amount of CO2 in the ocean would also rise making the oceans acidify and killing many if not most of the animal species and plant species in the oceans of the world. The main concern with Climate Change is the melting of polar ice caps. This would release huge amounts of water into the worlds oceans raising sea levels & coastal flooding but most importantly totally changing the worlds weather system by increasing the amount of water in the atmosphere as well leading to extreme weather conditions. Signs of this are already happening due to the release of CO2 from industries. If the Arctic ice cap melts at a continuing rate then a period of global warming will lead to a very quick change to global freezing. The snow would reflect the sun's rays away. There you go... After a brief period of global warming ruining the animal species then we would very quickly revert to a period of rapid cooling and maybe even an ice age..!

We can avoid this... by simple act of planting a tree and reducing the usage of wood. Single native tree...if planted by each one, there will be hope for our existence on the planet & our future. Trees are living solutions for our people in need of food, water, clean air and environment protection in the face of increasing climatic instability!

Today is 9th anniversary of Gifting Trees. May there be green everywhere in urban settlements. 
Let there be Native trees...everywhere!

Have You started segregating your waste?!

Ever since the segregation of Solid Waste at source has been made mandatory, there is a state of anxiety among the citizens of Nashik. Few believes the idea is good for environment. Few didn't give it a damn. Others started segregating the waste as not doing so may invite a penalty. But soon, more & more people started segregating their waste as Nashik Municipal Corporation started collecting fine from residential as well as commercial complexes.

Why this agitation and panic faces all around? Is it that difficult to segregate the solid waste, which actually is a resource?? And that's too for our own sake & future??? Not at all!

Remember 3 years back, on 5th anniversary of Gifting Trees..., We have discussed about the amount of waste going to local dumping yard?! It is time to act on it...if You don't want get penalized. :-)

Well... Segregation of Waste is very simple to do. I have already mentioned it in my previous articles about Composting techniques. One have to store Wet Waste like Vegetables residues, discarded food, egg shells, tea powder etc in Green Container. Dry Waste like newspaper, plastic, bottles, metal scrap, old clothes & footwear etc should go into Blue container. For other Dangerous Waste like Pesticide or colour bins, Electronic waste, CFLs, Tubes, Blade & Needles etc must go into Red container. Used Sanitary napkins & Diapers can also go into the Red one.

The Corporation is working hard on spreading the awareness and necessity of segregation at source.

It is due the interest taken by Nashik Municipal Corporation in this issue, Now people are asking & enquiring about the ways to segregate and recycle waste. Isn't it a good sign?! Oh yes, IT IS..!

Yes...there are still few people, who find excuses to do it, who complains about Garbage Van workers that they carry our segregated waste into the single container. Well, that is not the reason for You to avoid the segregation. Forget about the environment, This very simple step is necessary for our future generations. It is the time to act...

Toady is 5th May! Eight years went by, and here We are celebrating the anniversary of Gifting Trees again! :) Last year, We have planted 63 saplings of native trees and am happy to tell you that majority of them are flourishing well..! 

The Joy of Growing Trees!

Its been seven years...
Seven years of plantation...
Seven years of nurturing...
Seven years of love for Native trees, Ecosystem and Environment... :)

When you plant a sapling, you start looking after it. You tend to admire its day-to-day growth. And one fine day...you realize that the sapling which is on the verge of becoming a tree, needs no further care. Rather the tree starts looking after your needs...as the tree starts flowering and fruiting!

Its a great great experience which can not be described in words, to see the tree planted by you, flowering in different colours; to taste its delicious fruits! And out of all, its a wonderful, joyous feeling... that no one can purchase or no one can snatch. But one can surely experience it... by planting, nurturing and growing native trees!

The trees that we had planted seven years ago, have already started flowering and fruiting. Seeds of trees like Mango, Indian Beech, Neem, Gamhar, Sita-Ashoka etc have also started producing new saplings, to be planted somewhere and flourish. :)

You might remember, on the second anniversary of Gifting Trees, we had started a segment named Tree Rescue. It was based on the fact that the saplings growing on walls or any other undesired place in urban areas, should get a fair chance to grow. In fact such saplings are capable of surviving in harsh conditions. The seeds of species like Banyan, Peepal or Cluster Fig are often dispersed by birds and one can see them growing on walls or buildings; where either their growth is limited or they are short-lived. One just need to transplant them carefully somewhere where they can flourish. You will be very pleased to know that the rescued saplings of Peepal tree are now almost 25-30 feet tall and are growing in full speed. Yes, they can be called as Trees now!

Last year, we have planted 9 native saplings. How many have you..? Want to experience the same great joyous feeling... Come, plant & dedicate native trees! And grow them..!

Love can do miracles..!

Last year, my cute little niece Poorvi planted a Banyan tree sapling on the eve of Vat Pournima in a public garden. Though a small incident, it was published in a leading local news paper, as to inspire all of us to make effort for green future of the next generation. 

I still remember the day. There were few children playing in that garden accompanied by their parents. Watching a little girl planting a sapling, they all gathered around her and there started a conversation. Couple of them were just standing out of curiosity. Few started discussing about the decreased tree cover of Nashik. Apparently, out of them, one fine lady had no liking for Banyan and she was apprehensive about the spreading roots of Banyan which could disturb the foundation of adjacent buildings. Quite the contrary, the younger generation was in favor of Banyan tree as thy couldn't easily spot one in that garden with majority of introduced 'alien' trees. 

I had to explain the lady that the residential buildings are at least 40 meters away from this very plantation site, and in fact she need not to worry as it may take minimum 2 or 3 centuries to grow this Banyan that big. I also urged her that we should gift & preserve such trees for our next generation so that they also understand the importance of Native species.

The young brigade not only offered a helping hand, but few of them also committed to water the sapling regularly. Their faces were radiant enough with the joy of planting a tree. It was a signal to all the adults that instead of doing just the talking, we actually did it! Meanwhile, my father, Dr Prashant Phalak used to look after it periodically. I, personally, visited the spot four months back. That time, the sapling was very much good in condition. 

Last week, I happened to be there with my niece. And trust me, I was astonished to see that the Banyan has grown beyond 5 feet in less than a year! My niece was also delighted to see it growing so fast.

Love & care from young ones was more powerful than apprehension and fear of adults. It was that love which must have nurtured the sapling, I guess! Indeed, love can do miracles!

Today is 6th anniversary of 'Gifting Trees...' During last year, We have planted 12 saplings. And I promise you all, we will soon cross 300...may be on this Environment Day itself. Let there be love for Native trees everywhere...always!!!

Don't waste the Waste..!

Well… we all have heard, talked or read about the three R's - Reduce, Reuse and Recycling. There is nothing new about them, isn’t it?! But we hardly implement them in our day-to-day life. And that may be because we don’t know or understand the necessity to implement them and about their outcomes. What the R’s are for..?

Nashik is fast growing city. And like any other developing city, our municipal corporation is facing countless challenges due to increase in urban populations such as crowding, transportation, traffic, slums, water supply, power shortages, drainage, and above all, pollution. Pollution is the result of many variables. While air pollution and water quality get maximum share of attention, one pollution source that is largely ignored, though it often stares us in the face is Solid Waste.

Solid waste is defined as non-liquid material that no longer has any value to the person disposing it. Commonly known as garbage, rubbish or trash. Solid Waste Management (SWM) is usually the largest budget item for cities, especially in developing countries. Uncollected solid waste is often the leading contributor to local flooding, air & water pollution and can have an enormous impact on health, local environment as well as on the economy. As cities become larger, consumption of goods and services increases leading to more & more waste. Nashik generates about 450 tons/day of waste. That will be roughly around 165 Metric tons/year. Guess what will be the waste generation of whole world. We need to look at SWM quite seriously now onwards.

This is Garbage Dumping yard of Nashik located near 'Pandavleni'. Everyday, whatever Garbage Vans pick up, is dumped over here. Forget the sight, but it generates terrible smell which one can not stand even for few minutes. To add fuel to the fire, corporation started burning the garbage to create more space for more ‘garbage’, thus making it one of the most polluted area! Basically, Burning or Incineration of waste is not a solution at all! 'Worsening the waste' is what I call it! Burning releases very poisonous & harmful invisible gases Dioxins which are dangerous to human as well as birds & animals. In simple words, burning your waste will result in Landfills in the Sky. With all these, the residential area is not very far from the place. Almost all nearby societies complain about the smoke and smell from the site. The picture speaks for itself. There are people working in this horrible condition for management of this huge amount of garbage, which is increasing day by day. And most of all, the waste management is taking away huge amount of taxpayer's money.

Dumping or Land-filling is the most commonly used method for waste control in developing countries, with many of the dumps in the developing world being open dumps and unsanitary landfills, polluting nearby aquifers, water bodies and human settlements.

How much amount of garbage must be here? Guess... My camera couldn't cover every corner even in it's wide angle. Please see the following image full screen. And just try to compare the height of a human standing in blue outfit near the rising smoke with the height of the garbage mountain...

With no proper planning for waste disposal in place, there is no surprise that our precious but easy resources are over exploited and garbage mountains are being increasingly seen everywhere and the residents are slow-poisoned by the emissions of the burning.

Keeping our cities clean begins with each one of us. When we walk down the streets in our cities we see litter all around us - sometimes garbage bins have more litter around them than inside them. It is so easy to blame the litter and accuse paper, plastics, tin foil and food waste for making our environment dirty and unhealthy. But does paper, plastics, tin, foil and food waste appear magically on our streets and in our neighbourhoods? No, it’s thrown away and disposed of irresponsibly by each one of us!

Waste management in our cities continues to be a problem due to our littering habits and inadequate waste management systems. If we as responsible citizens use and dispose of waste correctly, we can contribute to protecting our environment, conserving natural resources and keeping our cities clean. A waste reduction strategy must be incorporated by each of us whether at home or at work by following the 4R's principle. Yes! Lets add one more R before rest of them.

REFUSE : I think, this is more important principle than the rest 3R. Refuse the single use or disposable products. Items with unnecessary complex packaging can also be refused and to see what can be deleted from our shopping list!

REDUCE : The best way to manage waste is to not produce it. This can be done by shopping carefully and being aware of our choices. Ex. at work, one can cut down on paper use. At home you can begin by purchasing things with lesser packaging, more durable & refillable items, carry your own shopping bag, avoid disposable items and reduce the use of plastics. 

REUSE : It makes economic and environmental sense to reuse products. Sometimes it takes creativity. You can reuse old bottles, jars as storage bins and buy reusable items rather than disposable ones.

RECYCLE : It is a series of steps that takes a used material & processes, re-manufactures and sells it as a new product. Segregate your waste for better disposal and purchase recycled/green products. A ton of paper from recycled material conserves about 7,000 gallons of water, 17-31 trees, 60 lb of air pollutants and 4,000 KWh of electricity. 

The four R's - all help not only to cut down on the amount of waste we throw away, but they also conserve natural resources, landfill space & energy.
Plus, the these R's save the soil or land and money used for landfills.

How?

We can sell unwanted newspapers, glass bottles, old electronic items to the raddiwallas and kabadiwallas (waste traders) - because there is a value in them. There is value too in the waste we dispose of everyday. We can unleash this value only if each household separates its waste into wet and dry. Then may be, we'll all come to know : Waste is actually a resource!

Wet Waste: Food, vegetable peels, egg shells and other organic materials. These are easily biodegradable and can break down and become compost or soil within a short period. Therefore, this waste should go into a compost pit. You can build your own vermi-compost pit in your colony/home and convert all wet waste into useful compost. This would reduce the pressure on our landfills also.

Dry Waste: Paper, plastics, tin, foil, glass, cloth and other materials that do not biodegrade. These materials can be recycled and made into useful products.

Better administration and public infra-structure are an immediate necessity in lower income countries. Most importantly, public attitude needs to be changed as soon as possible. And the change should start from oneself. Unless there is a shift towards a more responsible attitude, no enduring solution is possible. Public education that informs people of options to reduce waste, increase recycling and composting are a good starting point. There is also a need for the design of longer-lasting and reusable products. Municipalities can encourage people to form groups, segregate waste and process it at their end. Repairing, donating, selling and reusing products when possible, especially in the case of e-waste, is also essential. For example, only 5% of India’s electronic waste gets recycled due to absence of proper infrastructure and legislation. And last but not least, each & everyone of us should make an sincere effort to Refuse, Reduce, Reuse And Recycle..!

Today is 5th Anniversary of Gifting Trees. Let us join hands to reduce the load on dumping yard. We all must have a goal of reducing the amount of waste going into landfills by 40 percent. Everyone can help meet this goal and save natural resources, energy and money by following the four R's. Reducing waste also means conserving our limited resources. 

‘Vasanta’ - The King of Ritus

Vasant is a Ritu...Indian season which represents Spring. Indian year which is based on Moon is made up of six Ritus…namely Vasant, Grishma, Varsha, Sharad, Hemant, and Shishir. Though each & every Ritu has her own beauty; I think Vasant is the most fabulous amongst all. In this season, Mother Nature shows off her tremendous beauty. 

The beginning of Vasant Ritu fills pleasure in each & every particle of Nature. Blooming trees, shrubs & climbers and the aroma pleases our mind. Hence the season have remained all time favorite Ritu for many ancient writer and poets. Kalidasa was undoubtedly one of the greatest poets in classical Sanskrit literature. Vasant Ritu when sets in, there is a sense of excitement in the air - the romance, the jolliness, Nature’s finest manifestation in all her beauty- Vasanta, as Kalidasa calls it, is certainly the 'Rituraaja' - the king of seasons.

Vasant and Beauty of Nature has an inseparable inter-connection. It is time for every bush and tree to spring to life with blooms & bursts of colour and fragrance, vibrant as sparklers in festivals.

Indian rich heritage and mythology have wonderfully described the importance of Vasant. Lord Krishna says in the Bhagwad Gita that in all seasons, He is the Vasant. The festival of Vasant is celebrated in India on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha and so is called Vasant Panchami; but the concept behind it goes deeper than mere calculation of the days of the moon. To understand the true significance of the festival it would be instructive to understand the essence of Goddess Saraswati, the presiding deity of learning, aesthetics and creativity. 

One thing important to note is Vasant or spring do not begin at once across the length & breadth of our country. For instance, in Maharashtra, Vasant season is approximately from 16 February to 15 April; whereas In North states, the Ritu visits a bit later. After mid-April, here starts the Grishma Ritu. In Maharashtra, number of trees like Palash, Mango, Pongam, Indian Rosewood, Java Plum, Mahua, Sorrowless tree, Semal, Indian Siris, Pride of  India, Gamhar, Sonpattta, Indian Coral tree etc bloom in Vasant Ritu only. According to me, it is the best season to visit forests or sanctuaries to view these flowering beauties. The flower is a beautiful symbol of life & regeneration as it leads to seed and then to another plant. Hence Vasant is also known as Kusumakara.  

In Vasant, the gardens are bustling with activity - the constant droning of the bees, the chirping of the birds, the call of the Asian Koel and the constant rustling of the leaves. The pleasant warm sunshine and the breeze set up a highly romantic atmosphere. Vasanta is also known as “Madhumaasa“, which brings lovers together...forever! With all the beauty and fragrance of Vasant Ritu in mind, here are we celebrating 'Gifting Trees...'s 4th anniversary. Is that a coincidence? I think not... :D

In last year, we have planted 7 native trees. Though we have saved couple of plants, sadly we lost few previously planted trees due construction works in the premises. So we replaced them with these new saplings. In summer one has to take extra care of the planted sapling. Last years we experienced few surprises too! Earlier we used water the plants and so we had some days devoted for watering. On some of the watering days, we found few of the saplings near a building were already watered...

"Wow!"

Not because it saved our efforts...but for few have understood the importance of native trees in urban areas! :)