Ecological Restoration

Our Achievement

The project was undertaken to step up the protection and conservation of the natural environment in mining areas. The one-year intensive study covered a scientific assessment of the problem in its totality and provided an action plan for long-term ecological rehabilitation of the three active mining sites. Suitable guidelines and strategies have also been proposed for the efficient development of mineral resources in the State without disturbing the balance of nature.

The study was undertaken to evolve an alternative development plan that is ecologically sound and devise methods for proper regulation of activities of the Alang-Sosiya shipbreaking yard. A comprehensive investigation of ecological features of the coastal area, littoral zone, and offshore region was carried out with the help of specific task forces. Some of the more critical issues such as heavy metal pollution, oil and hydrocarbon, and the occurrence of pathogens were also undertaken. After understanding the local ecosystem dynamics, a practical strategy for the prevention of pollution, the upgradation of landscape, conservation of biological diversity, and betterment of the human population concerned with this industry were recommended. The study also identified areas for fresh intervention for ecologically sustainable development of the region.

The Society also promoted the Coastal Eco-village development project aimed at creating a model for the revitalization of the degraded saline coastal land through physical, chemical, and biological treatment. The project is being implemented by VIKAS, an NGO based in Ahmedabad and has been sponsored by the International Ocean Institute, Malta.

The project aimed to regulate the invasion of P. juliflora in Banni by sustainably involving the local populace. The project included two approaches. Firstly, ecological and socio-economic studies were conducted to understand the cause-effect relationship between vegetation and, the impact of P. juliflora on other plants on animals, and on local communities.

The Society also promoted the Coastal Eco-village development project aimed at creating a model for the revitalization of the degraded saline coastal land through physical, chemical, and biological treatment. The project is being implemented by VIKAS, an NGO based in Ahmedabad, and has been sponsored by the International Ocean Institute, Malta.

The project aims the study hydrography and biodiversity (plants, birds, zooplankton, phytoplankton) of the ponds and lakes in the Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA) area. The impact of developmental activities and dependence on locals on the wetland is assessed, as necessary, to formulate a conservation plan for them.

GES studied ecological status, social response, and the impact of land-use changes on the hydrology of the ponds. Based on study findings restoration plans for both the ponds were given.

The project supported institutional strengthening via forming four Biodiversity Management Committees (BMC). The project also trained the locals in creating mangrove nurseries and transplanting saplings into the intertidal region.

GES undertook the restoration of mining dumps at Panandhro lignite mine, Kachchh. Around 4 ha barren area was restored by the propagating grassland herb species along with plantation of native tree species like Gora amli, Deshibaval, Aloe vera, Tamarix, and Salvadora which performed very well and survived the difficult soil conditions (low pH and high aridity). After the restoration, various wild fauna like snakes, hares, wild boar, nilgai, chinkara, and jackal were also sighted in the study area.

The project aimed at restoring the grasslands in the gauchar lands along Kachchh and the capacity building of the locals in the ecological monitoring process. The prime objective of the project is to develop an Indigenous and Community Conserved Area (ICCA) kind of the first time in Kachchh and also conserve the endemic species by developing gene banks. This process under its umbrella effect will indirectly help in conserving the unique inland mangroves existing in Guneri.