The Green Credit Programme (GCP) was launched in India in October 2023. It aims to promote tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forest land. As of now, 17 states have committed over 57,700 hectares for this initiative. Madhya Pradesh leads with over 15,200 hectares, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. The GCP is part of a broader movement to encourage sustainable practices.
About Green Credit Programme
The GCP is designed as a market-based mechanism. It incentivises voluntary environmental actions by individuals, communities, and private sectors. The programme allows participants to earn green credits for their efforts in tree plantation and water conservation.
Mechanism of Earning Green Credits
Participants can register their activities through a dedicated government platform. After verification, they receive a Green Credit certificate. These credits can be traded, providing a financial incentive for environmental actions. The programme focuses on eco-restoration of degraded lands, including wastelands and catchment areas.
Governance and Administration
The GCP is supported by an inter-ministerial Steering Committee. The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) administers the programme. They oversee implementation, monitoring, and management of the GCP. A digital platform is being developed to facilitate project registration and credit trading.
Criticism and Challenges
Some ecologists and former forest officers have raised concerns. They argue that the GCP cannot replace primary forest cover. Critics stress the importance of preserving natural ecosystems, which support biodiversity and local communities. This marks the need for a balanced approach to environmental restoration.
Complementary Initiatives – Ecomark Scheme
Alongside the GCP, the Ecomark Scheme was introduced. This initiative promotes eco-friendly products. It provides accreditation for goods that meet specific environmental criteria. The scheme aims to raise consumer awareness and encourage sustainable choices.
Implementation of the Ecomark Scheme
The Ecomark Scheme replaces a previous notification. It ensures that products adhere to quality standards while minimising environmental impact. The Central Pollution Control Board and the Bureau of Indian Standards oversee this initiative. This partnership aims to prevent misleading claims about eco-friendliness.
Alignment with Global Sustainability Goals
Both the GCP and Ecomark Scheme reflect India’s commitment to environmental conservation. They align with global sustainability goals and promote eco-conscious practices. The initiatives encourage individual and collective efforts towards a sustainable lifestyle.
Future Prospects
The success of these programmes depends on public participation. Awareness campaigns will be crucial for encouraging involvement. As more individuals and companies engage, the potential for environmental impact increases.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Green Credit Programme in promoting environmental sustainability in India.
- Critically examine the challenges faced by the Green Credit Programme in achieving its objectives.
- Explain the role of the Ecomark Scheme in encouraging eco-friendly consumer behaviour.
- What are the potential impacts of market-based environmental initiatives on biodiversity conservation? Discuss with examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the significance of the Green Credit Programme in promoting environmental sustainability in India.
- The GCP incentivizes tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded lands, addressing deforestation issues.
- It engages various stakeholders, including individuals and private sectors, encouraging community involvement.
- By providing tradable green credits, it creates a financial motivation for environmental actions.
- The programme aligns with India’s broader sustainability goals and the ‘LiFE’ movement, promoting eco-conscious practices.
- It aims to restore biodiversity and enhance ecosystem services through improved forest management.
2. Critically examine the challenges faced by the Green Credit Programme in achieving its objectives.
- Critics argue GCP cannot replace primary forests, raising concerns about biodiversity loss.
- Verification processes for green credits may be cumbersome, deterring potential participants.
- There is a risk of greenwashing, where companies may exploit the scheme without genuine environmental commitment.
- Limited public awareness and understanding of the programme can hinder participation.
- Balancing economic development with environmental restoration poses challenge.
3. Explain the role of the Ecomark Scheme in encouraging eco-friendly consumer behaviour.
- The Ecomark Scheme provides accreditation for products meeting specific environmental standards.
- It helps consumers identify eco-friendly products, promoting informed purchasing decisions.
- By raising awareness about environmental impacts, it nudges manufacturers toward sustainable practices.
- Accredited products are marketed as environmentally responsible, enhancing brand value.
- The scheme aims to prevent misleading claims, ensuring transparency in eco-labeling.
4. What are the potential impacts of market-based environmental initiatives on biodiversity conservation? Discuss with examples.
- Market-based initiatives like GCP can lead to increased afforestation, enhancing habitat for various species.
- They can facilitate the restoration of degraded ecosystems, improving biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Examples include successful tree plantation projects that have revived local flora and fauna.
- However, if not managed properly, they may prioritize monoculture plantations over diverse ecosystems.
- Such initiatives can also generate funding for conservation projects, supporting biodiversity research and protection efforts.
