Coal/Lignite PSUs Spearheading Green Initiatives in FY 2023-24

TFP Bureau New Delhi, August 8, 2023: As the nation’s energy demand continues to rise, Coal/Lignite Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) under the Ministry of Coal have taken up the mantle of environmental stewardship. Focusing on mitigating the impact of their operations, these PSUs have embarked on an extensive greening campaign. Aiming to plant over 50 lakh saplings across 2400 hectares in the fiscal year 2023-24, the Ministry of Coal is placing special emphasis on the adoption of Accredited Compensatory Afforestation (ACA) methods.

The Ministry’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation is reflected in the comprehensive measures taken by Coal/Lignite PSUs. In line with the ambitious targets, these entities have already planted over 19.5 lakh native saplings across 1117 hectares as of August 2023. Utilizing diverse techniques like block plantation, avenue plantation, three-tier plantations, high-tech cultivation, and bamboo plantation, they are contributing to a significant carbon sink enhancement.

Furthermore, Coal/Lignite PSUs are devising innovative approaches to afforestation. The Miyawaki method, a Japanese technique that swiftly transforms degraded land into lush forests, has been adopted with remarkable success. One such instance can be seen in the Gevra Project, Korba, Chhattisgarh, where Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has planted around 8000 saplings per hectare using this method.

The scope of plantation extends to de-coaled areas, encompassing both diverted forest land and non-forest land. This not only aids in the reclamation of degraded landscapes but also aligns with the ACA framework. By proactively afforesting non-forest de-coaled land, Coal/Lignite PSUs are streamlining the Forest Clearance process and promoting sustainable land use. Notably, they have already identified approximately 2838 hectares for compensatory afforestation under ACA guidelines.

These green initiatives significantly contribute to India’s climate commitments. By establishing additional carbon sinks, these efforts support the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) goal of creating a carbon sink equivalent to 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2. This aligns with India’s broader objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Beyond climate benefits, afforestation plays a pivotal role in ecological restoration, preventing soil erosion, stabilizing climate patterns, conserving biodiversity, and improving air and water quality. Additionally, its global impact extends to carbon sequestration and catalyzing economic growth in regions. As Coal/Lignite PSUs continue their endeavor to promote sustainable rehabilitation and environmental well-being, they exemplify the synergy between industrial growth and ecological stewardship.