Ahmedabad: In a groundbreaking move, the Gujarat Forest Department has signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) valued at Rs 2,217 crore for carbon credits through mangrove tree plantation involving local communities. The initiative is part of the upcoming 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.
Principal Secretary (Forest and Environment) Sanjeev Kumar announced the historic development, highlighting the significance of community involvement in carbon credit initiatives. Additionally, agreements in the field of carbon credit through agro-forestry have also been formalized.
The state forest and environment department will host a seminar titled “Towards Net Zero” on January 12 during the summit. The seminar aims to address India’s commitment to combating global climate change. Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav is set to inaugurate the event.
In conjunction with the MoUs, the Gujarat government is exploring carbon sequestration potential in wetlands. The Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation, an autonomous body of the department, is conducting a comprehensive carbon study at four Ramsar sites.
Additionally, the summit will feature discussions on the greenfield smart city Dholera’s potential to become a global hub for semiconductor industries. The one-day conclave will delve into Dholera’s vision as a smart industrial city and its attractiveness as a prime investment destination.
The panel discussions will focus on ‘Greenfield Smart Cities: Future of Urbanisation,’ offering a platform for experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore eco-friendly and planned city solutions. A dedicated session on “Dholera: India’s First Semicon City in the Making” will explore its potential as a global hub for the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) industry.
