afforestation

Afforestation is the process of planting trees on land that has not historically been forested. This is distinct from reforestation, which involves re-establishing forests on land that was previously wooded.1

Afforestation is a crucial strategy for ecological restoration and combating climate change by increasing carbon sequestration. While afforested areas may not match the biodiversity of original forests, they offer economic and ecological advantages.1

In India, afforestation efforts are part of the National Mission for Green India, aiming to restore ecosystems and enhance carbon capture. The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) also supports these activities. Despite these programs increasing green cover, many forests remain degraded.2