“Mass reforestation without biodiversity literacy may revive tree cover but not ecosystem function”. Explore the ecological pitfalls of non-specific afforestation strategies. Assess the role of biodiversity in ecological restoration.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Q6. “Mass reforestation without biodiversity literacy may revive tree cover but not ecosystem function”. Explore the ecological pitfalls of non-specific afforestation strategies. Assess the role of biodiversity in ecological restoration. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question: In light of recent large-scale afforestation initiatives like Kerala’s Vithoot Programme, raising concerns about ecological suitability and long-term biodiversity impact. Key Demand of the question: The answer must explore the ecological risks of generic afforestation approaches and assess the importance of biodiversity in ensuring meaningful ecological restoration. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Briefly highlight the gap between tree cover expansion and ecosystem recovery when biodiversity is not factored in. Body Mention key ecological risks of non-specific afforestation such as invasive species spread, habitat alteration, and loss of ecosystem services. Highlight how biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, soil and water health, and supports wildlife and human livelihoods. Conclusion Suggest that future restoration must be biodiversity-led, region-specific, and guided by ecological reference models.
Why the question: In light of recent large-scale afforestation initiatives like Kerala’s Vithoot Programme, raising concerns about ecological suitability and long-term biodiversity impact.
Key Demand of the question: The answer must explore the ecological risks of generic afforestation approaches and assess the importance of biodiversity in ensuring meaningful ecological restoration.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction Briefly highlight the gap between tree cover expansion and ecosystem recovery when biodiversity is not factored in.
• Mention key ecological risks of non-specific afforestation such as invasive species spread, habitat alteration, and loss of ecosystem services.
• Highlight how biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, soil and water health, and supports wildlife and human livelihoods.
Conclusion Suggest that future restoration must be biodiversity-led, region-specific, and guided by ecological reference models.