Why Urban Afforestation Matters

Team GSRN| New Delhi| 15-04-2025

Trees are more than just greenery; they are lifelines for us. Urban afforestation, the practice of planting trees in cities, is becoming essential to fight pollution, reduce heat, and improve overall quality of life. According to a study published by the World Economic Forum, trees can lower city temperatures by up to 8°C. A report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) highlights that trees can absorb up to 150 kg of carbon dioxide per year and filter harmful pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter.

Apart from environmental benefits, trees also support mental health. A 2023 research paper in Nature journal found that people living near green spaces have reduced stress levels, improved focus, and a lower risk of depression. Urban afforestation also promotes biodiversity and ecosystem services. Native birds, bees, and butterflies find shelter in tree-filled spaces, creating mini-ecosystems even within city limits.

So, planting trees is not just a beautification project, it's a necessity for a sustainable and healthier urban future for all.

#greensafetyresearchnetwork #gsrn #sustainableliving #research #environmentaleducation #awareness #afforestation #urbanphotography #explorepage #reelkarofeelkaro #biodiversity #environmentalsafety #ecosystemrestoration

Comments

Climate change reshapes global weather patterns: India's 2025 outlook

By Preety Chaudhary| 02 May, 2025 As the climate crisis intensifies, 2025 has emerged as a pivotal year, with India experiencing unprecedented weather extremes that underscore the urgent need for adaptive strategies. India faced an early and intense heatwave in April 2025, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in Delhi and reaching a staggering 46.4°C in Barmer, Rajasthan. Such extremes are becoming increasingly common, attributed largely to human-driven climate change. Meanwhile, the Himalayas recorded their lowest snowfall in 23 years, threatening the freshwater supply for nearly two billion people across Asia. This decline jeopardizes agriculture, hydropower, and drinking water resources in the region. Globally, abrupt temperature shifts rapid transitions between extreme heat and cold have increased, affecting over 60% of the planet. These fluctuations, driven by jet stream changes and soil moisture variations, pose significant challenges to agriculture and infrastructure. Climate ch...

Farmers and Pesticide Exposure in India: A Growing Concern

By Preety Chaudhary| May 4 ,2025 Delhi: Pesticide exposure remains a serious threat to the health and safety of Indian farmers. Recent studies have revealed alarming trends in both awareness levels and the adoption of preventive measures across agricultural communities. A study in Telangana highlighted that farmers are facing a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, skin disorders, and even neurological symptoms, due to unsafe pesticide practices. Many still handle chemicals without adequate protective gear or proper knowledge of safety protocols. In North India, over 55% of farmers reportedly do not read pesticide labels, while nearly 80% remain unaware of bans or restrictions on certain chemicals. The widespread ignorance about personal protective equipment (PPE) further increases their vulnerability. Despite the risks, conventional pesticides continue to dominate Indian agriculture due to their high efficacy, affordability, and long-lasting action. These chemicals a...

Can Small Cities Adopt Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan, or Are We Still Unprepared for Heatwaves?

Team GSRN| 19-04-2025 New Delhi: As India faces rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves, cities are under pressure to act. Ahmedabad set a benchmark in heatwave preparedness by introducing South Asia’s first Heat Action Plan (HAP) back in 2013. The plan includes early warning systems, public awareness campaigns promote hydration and sun safety, health worker training targets heatstroke treatment, cooling centres offer relief in public spaces, and measures for vulnerable populations. Ahmedabad's HAP is a well-thought-out, community-based strategy created by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) with support from the Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) and the Natural Resources Defence Council (NRDC). According to studies by IIPH and NRDC, the city has seen a 25–30% drop in heat-related deaths since the HAP began. More importantly, people are more aware, alert, and prepared. The central government, recognizing its success, has encouraged other urban areas to adopt si...

Green Safety Research Network

Search This Blog