Grasslands and Climate Resilience: World Soil Day Notes
Why in the news
On World Soil Day, dryland grasslands were highlighted as climate allies, since tree planting alone cannot secure drylands.
Key facts
- Roots: most grass biomass sits underground in deep fibrous roots that bind soil and hold carbon.
- Stability: this carbon is steadier than forest above-ground carbon and survives fires.
- Banni: among the most carbon-rich arid ecosystems globally.
| Site | Finding |
|---|---|
| Malshiras (Maharashtra) | Soil organic carbon up 21% in two years, 50% by year three |
| Banni (Gujarat) | 27 tonnes of carbon per hectare to 30 cm; community-led restoration |
Background
- Colonial policy favoured timber forests; the National Wastelands Development Board (1985) kept the wasteland label.
- Afforestation with invasive mesquite harmed soil and herders.
Way forward
- Restore native grasslands, clear invasive woody species, reintroduce native perennial grasses.
- Give pastoralists a role in governance.
Exam angle
- 1985 body: National Wastelands Development Board.
- Restoration fund: CAMPA.