NEWS — The Karnataka Forest Department has launched the Karnataka Forest, Wildlife and Climate Change Foundation (KFWCCF) to facilitate corporate participation in environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.

HIGHLIGHTS

Purpose and Objectives

• Four Key Goals: Correct conservation imbalances, prevent duplication of efforts, build conservation branding, and provide impact assessments.
• Corporate Involvement: Encourage companies to contribute via Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for afforestation, wildlife protection, eco-restoration, and urban biodiversity projects.

High-Profile Launch

• Brand Ambassador: Former Indian cricket captain Anil Kumble will promote conservation awareness among corporates.

Operational Approach

• Field-Driven Support: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Meenakshi Negi highlighted that the foundation will respond to urgent ground-level needs, similar to tiger foundations in addressing wildlife conflict compensation.
• Rising Costs: PCCF B P Ravi stressed that forest patrolling, conflict management, and community outreach require increased funding, alongside hiring and welfare of frontline staff.

Innovative Projects and Urban Green Goals

• Carbon Neutral Neighbourhoods: Additional PCCF Vijay Mohan Raj proposed certification for communities achieving carbon neutrality through greenery expansion and tree planting.
• Urban Focus: Plans include promoting larger green spaces in Bengaluru and surrounding districts, with the department supplying seedlings for CSR-driven projects.

Corporate and Public Benefits

• Tax Incentives: As a registered charitable society, KFWCCF will allow donors to claim tax exemptions.
• Public Involvement: Kumble aims to channel public passion for wildlife into tangible conservation action.