Adopting nature-based solutions is the most efficient ways to reduce plastic waste

We are way behind in finding solutions to this ever-increasing problem of plastic pollution. While plastic is affordable and versatile, we can’t ignore its hazardous impact on the environment, wildlife and mankind. India generates about 3.5 billion tons of plastic annually; this figure should be a compelling force to take the right actions to combat plastic pollution.

One of the most efficient ways to reduce that pile of plastic waste is to adopt nature-based solutions. Trees can help us replace plastic with tree-based alternatives like bamboo, cork oak, hemp, agave, etc. which are durable and sustainable and offer value for money and the environment. Trees and their extensive root systems act as natural filters, helping to improve soil and water quality which is severely compromised because of plastic pollution. Plastic pollution often finds its way into water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and oceans, leading to severe ecological damage. Trees along riverbanks and in riparian zones help filter out pollutants, including plastic debris, preventing them from reaching water bodies. Plastic production and disposal processes generate significant greenhouse gas emissions, and trees can help absorb significant CO2 and other pollutants.

Our plantation projects in 23 states of India are a robust reforestation attempt to counteract plastic pollution and improve the ecosystem services so that the environment can recuperate effectively from pollution and ecological degradation.

Grow-Trees.com is a pioneering, web-enabled and cost-effective social enterprise that aims to popularize the practice of ‘Greet with Trees®’ around the world. With the mission of mitigating climate change and promoting trees as a sustainable and meaningful gift, we have developed thematic planting programs such as Trees for Tigers®, Trees for Tribals®, Trees for Rivers, etc. Grow-Trees also has tree plantation projects for carbon credits to help corporations offset their carbon footprint. Every project generates employment for local communities and aims to address the socio-environmental challenges in a region through tree planting. Individuals and companies can dedicate the trees they plant via an eTreeCertificate® delivered online on important occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, festivals, etc.; the trees can also be used to welcome new employees, honor customers, event speakers and acknowledge dignitaries.

Grow-Trees has planted over 18 million trees across 23 Indian states and generated over 1.4 million workdays since its inception in 2010. We have expanded our global footprint with two of our plantation projects in Africa and we are getting closer to our goal of planting trees all over the world. For more information, visit www.grow-trees.com.