In pursuit of the global One Trillion Trees Initiative launched by the World Economic Forum in 2020, the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) has initiated a programme aimed to promote the conservation and propagation of endangered tree species within the state. This initiative is being implemented through three of its premier R&D institutions—KSCSTE-Kerala Forest Research Institute, KSCSTE- Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, and KSCSTE- Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute for Plant Sciences.
The primary objective of this initiative is to identify and propagate tree species listed in the IUCN Red List, with an emphasis on threatened endemic species of Peninsular India, particularly those native to Kerala. The project aims to produce sufficient numbers of these species for widespread planting across diverse landscapes, including forested and degraded lands, sacred groves, educational campuses, and public parks. Furthermore, a selection of economically important tree species has been identified for distribution among farmers and plantation sectors, thereby integrating conservation with livelihood enhancement.
Through this comprehensive approach, KSCSTE seeks to contribute meaningfully to global reforestation efforts while simultaneously preserving Kerala’s rich and unique botanical heritage.
Key Features
- Conservation of Rare, Endangered, and Threatened species(RET)
- Large-Scale Propagation of RET species
- Restoration of ecological balance
- Preservation of Kerala’s unique botanical heritage
- Contribute meaningfully to global reforestation goals
Contact
Dr. P Harinarayanan
Senior Principal Scientist,
Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE)
Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom
Thiruvananthapuram
0471 2548299
hari.kscste@kerala.gov.in