ANNOUNCEMENTS
Social, economic, and environmental balance are all disrupted by climate change, which has a substantial influence on human and natural systems. This study looks at the project, which was started in Uttarakhand, India, with the goal of using extensive afforestation to lessen the consequences of climate change. The project aimed to plant one million trees in order to improve local lives, boost biodiversity, rehabilitate damaged lands, and trap carbon dioxide. It was connected with both national and international Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a mixed-method approach, the study examines data from quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews conducted in two districts, Uttarkashi and Nainital. The results show that the afforestation projects have greatly increased soil fertility, water retention, and biodiversity by achieving a high survival rate of planted trees. The project also improved community resilience against natural catastrophes and produced a significant number of employment possibilities, especially for women and economically disadvantaged groups. Evaluations of the success of sustainability initiatives, local government, and community involvement emphasize the significance of inclusive and participatory methods in environmental preservation. The difficulties include the interference of wildlife and, in certain cases, the necessity for improved community sensitization. Overall, the project shows how important it may be to combat the effects of climate change and advance sustainable development through deliberate afforestation backed by robust institutional and community involvement. For long-term environmental and socioeconomic advantages, the study emphasizes the necessity of ongoing monitoring, adaptive management, and scaling up of such projects.
Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Afforestation, Sustainable Development, Livelihood Resilience, Biodiversity Conservation.
