Every year, June 5 is observed as World Environment Day, a global occasion dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action for the protection of our planet. In an age marked by climate change, biodiversity loss, rising temperatures, water scarcity, and increasing pollution, the significance of this day has never been greater. Yet, across the world, environmental degradation continues at an alarming pace. The Goa government's announcement of a 90-day tree-plantation drive wherein 16 lakh saplings are to be planted is a welcome initiative. However, experience shows that a significant percentage of planted saplings do not survive due to poor maintenance, unsuitable species selection, or lack of post-plantation care. Tree-plantation drives must go hand in hand with strict measures to prevent unnecessary tree cutting. While development projects are important, they should be planned in a manner that minimizes ecological damage. Every tree felled should undergo rigorous environmental scrutiny, and compensatory plantations must be monitored for survival and growth rather than existing only on paper. Protecting existing forests, urban green spaces, mangroves, and old-growth trees is often more effective than attempting to recreate ecosystems from scratch. Conservation and plantation are complementary necessities.
