Odisha’s Ecosystem Services Valued at $5 Billion

Odisha‘s economy relies on its ecosystem services. A recent report estimates these services to be worth Rs 36,890 crore or $5 billion. This valuation marks the importance of land commons, which include forests, pastures, and uncultivated lands. These areas provide vital socio-ecological benefits and livelihoods for millions. However, they face numerous threats that jeopardise their sustainability and the well-being of local communities.

About Ecosystem Services

Ecosystem services are the benefits humans derive from nature. They include provisioning services like food and water, regulating services such as climate regulation, and cultural services that provide recreational and spiritual benefits. In Odisha, these services are crucial for the rural economy and the environment.

Value of Land Commons

The report identifies nearly five million hectares of land commons in Odisha. These areas contribute to the state’s economy. The value transfer method used in the study estimates the economic benefits of these lands by applying existing valuation estimates. This approach puts stress on the socio-economic impact of land commons on local communities.

Threats to Ecosystem Services

Land commons in Odisha face serious threats. Issues like land degradation, overuse, and encroachments are prevalent. These challenges lead to a loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and water quality deterioration. Climate change further exacerbates these threats, making it essential to address them for sustainable management.

Impact of Climate Change

Odisha is one of eight state of Indias vulnerable to climate change. With a population of around 36 million, the state’s economy is closely linked to its natural resources. Extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods, and droughts pose important risks. About these impacts is vital for developing effective policies.

Need for Policy Reforms

The report calls for urgent legal and institutional reforms. Sustainable management practices and community-based approaches are essential for safeguarding land commons. Incorporating the economic value of these resources into policy-making is crucial for their protection and sustainable use.

Economic Significance of Ecosystem Services

Tangible products like food and water are valued at Rs 65,411 per hectare annually. Climate regulating services such as soil fertility are valued at Rs 60,698 per hectare per annum. Supporting services, including soil formation, are valued at Rs 24,078. Cultural services contribute an additional Rs 4,456 per hectare. These figures highlight the economic significance of maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Community Involvement and Management

Community-based management is vital for the sustainable use of land commons. Engaging local populations in decision-making processes can enhance resource management. This approach encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility towards natural resources.

Conclusion on Valuation and Protection

The valuation of Odisha’s ecosystem services provides a quantitative basis for recognising their contributions to the economy. It emphasises the need for policies that ensure the sustainable management and protection of these vital resources.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the relationship between ecosystem services and rural economies in India.
2. Discuss the impact of climate change on biodiversity and natural resources in coastal regions.
3. Explain the concept of sustainable management practices in the context of land commons.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the importance of community involvement in natural resource management.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the relationship between ecosystem services and rural economies in India.

1. Ecosystem services provide essential resources such as food, water, and raw materials that directly support rural livelihoods.
2. Healthy ecosystems contribute to agricultural productivity, enhancing food security and income for rural populations.
3. Rural economies rely on ecosystem services for traditional practices, cultural identity, and community well-being.
4. Degradation of ecosystem services leads to economic losses, increased poverty, and social instability in rural areas.
5. Effective management of ecosystem services can encourage sustainable development and resilience against climate change impacts.

2. Discuss the impact of climate change on biodiversity and natural resources in coastal regions.

1. Climate change leads to rising sea levels, affecting coastal habitats and threatening species diversity.
2. Increased frequency of extreme weather events disrupts ecosystems and alters species distributions.
3. Coral reefs and mangroves, crucial for biodiversity, face degradation due to temperature rise and ocean acidification.
4. Changes in precipitation patterns affect freshwater availability, impacting agriculture and local fisheries.
5. Loss of biodiversity undermines ecosystem resilience, reducing the capacity of natural resources to adapt to ongoing climate changes.

3. Explain the concept of sustainable management practices in the context of land commons.

1. Sustainable management practices aim to balance ecological health with economic and social needs of communities.
2. They involve techniques such as agroforestry, rotational grazing, and conservation tillage to maintain soil health and productivity.
3. Community participation in decision-making ensures that local knowledge and needs are integrated into management strategies.
4. Legal frameworks and policies are essential to protect land commons from overexploitation and degradation.
5. Monitoring and adaptive management practices help in responding to environmental changes and ensuring long-term sustainability.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the importance of community involvement in natural resource management.

1. Community involvement encourages a sense of ownership, leading to more responsible and effective resource management.
2. Examples like community forest management in India demonstrate successful local governance and conservation efforts.
3. Local knowledge enhances the understanding of ecosystem dynamics, leading to more effective management practices.
4. Engagement in decision-making processes empowers communities, ensuring that their needs and rights are respected.
5. Collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions for resource management, as seen in various community-led conservation initiatives globally.