Elevating Forest Sustainability: Harnessing 3D Models for Awareness and Conservation in Himachal Pradesh

09 Oct, 2023

Forest ecosystems are crucial for our survival, extending beyond mere timber resources. Mass sensitisation on sustainable forest management has become an integral component of overall forest sustainability. The global spotlight is on strengthening bonds between the forest sector and society, highlighting the extensive direct and indirect benefits these ecosystems provide. Using interactive 3D models has emerged as a highly effective and accessible means to visually convey these messages to a broader audience.

In line with these efforts, together with the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department (HPFD), the Sustainable Management of Forest Ecosystem Services (FES) Project with support from the Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology Bangalore, is crafting self-explanatory 3D models and installations that fetch essential concepts for conserving forest ecosystems. These will be installed at selected tourist hotspots in Himachal Pradesh.

On 9 October, the project showcased scaled-down versions of these models at an exhibition during the closing ceremony of Wildlife Week, organised by the HPFD. The Hon’ble Education Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mr. Rohit Thakur, inaugurated this exhibit, which included a preview of the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary installation and 3D models for the Himalayan Nature Park Kufri (Kufri Zoo), Beas Bihal Nature Park Manali and the Forest Training Academy Sundernagar. Mr Thakur emphasised the importance of raising awareness on forest and wildlife conservation and increasing youth participation in these activities.

The event highlighted:

• How awareness generation for biodiversity and ecosystem services conservation plays a vital role in creating a green and sustainable environment for future generations,
• How green spaces in urban centers such as the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary serve as excellent educational and awareness creation grounds for fostering a deeper connection between tourists and nature,
• Why biodiversity preservation is essential to prevent the decline in flora and fauna populations caused by human disruptions.

Promoting sustainable forest management and raising awareness about conserving forest ecosystems are pivotal in advancing the goals of the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP) between India and Germany. Acknowledging the integral role of individuals in safeguarding these vital resources is a fundamental stride towards a greener and more sustainable future.

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About the project

Integrating the lessons from HP-FES, a follow-up project on ‘Sustainable Management of Forest Ecosystem Services (FES)’ is being implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, State Forest Departments of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and GIZ India on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It aims to strengthen forest and agroforest management to integrate the Forest Ecosystem Services approach with a focus on water availability. Read More

For more information contact: biodiv.india@giz.de