Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Th
Context: The Kerala government allowed the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to plant eucalyptus trees for financial reasons, sparking protests from environmentalists who argued it would harm forests and increase human-animal conflicts.
- The government later amended the order to restrict planting eucalyptus only on KFDC land, aligning with a 2021 eco-restoration policy aimed at replacing invasive species with indigenous flora.
Issues with the order: In conflict with the 2021 Eco-restoration Policy, which aims to replace invasive species with native ones to support wildlife, the widespread planting of eucalyptus faces opposition. Studies like the Chinnakanal Example demonstrate that replacing eucalyptus with native fruit-bearing species could mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. Instances of successful restoration, such as the Marayoor Sandal Division, highlight the benefits of removing exotic species, supported by international organizations.
About Eucalyptus:
It is native to Australia, Tasmania, and nearby islands, and is an evergreen tree primarily planted for fuel and furniture wood, as well as paper and pulp production. However, concerns arise due to its high water consumption, toxicity to animals, and flammable oil emissions. Despite being a biomass production champion, its rapid growth exacerbates water depletion and soil fertility reduction, leading to ecological concerns.
