Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) | What are "Eco-sensitive zones" ? | Conserving Biodiversity in India: The Importance of Eco-Sensitive Zones | Understanding India's Eco-Sensitive Zones: A Guide to Protecting Biodiversity and Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflicts

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 authorizes the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to declare Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in India. These zones act as "shock absorbers" to the protected areas by regulating and managing the activities around them. The National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016) suggested that lands within 10 km of such areas should be notified as ESZs, but the extent may vary depending on the ecological significance of the surrounding areas. The main objective of ESZs is to conserve biodiversity and reduce human-wildlife conflicts. They also protect endangered species in their natural habitats, prevent forest degradation and urbanization, involve local communities in conservation efforts and promote sustainable practices.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified 92 Eco-Sensitive Zones and 2 Ecologically Sensitive Areas in 13 States of the Indian Himalayan Region. These zones are declared to conserve biodiversity and regulate activities around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. For example, the Gulf of Kutch is India's first marine eco-sensitive zone. The activities in these zones are categorized as Prohibited, Regulated or Promoted. Prohibited activities include commercial mining, industries causing pollution, major hydroelectric projects, commercial use of wood etc. Regulated activities include agricultural or horticultural practice, rainwater harvesting, use of renewable energy sources, adoption of green technology etc.

ESZs are vital for conserving Protected Areas and their biodiversity. They buffer the impacts of harmful activities on the ecosystem. ESZs face many challenges, such as development, governance, tourism, invasive species, climate change, and local community demands. To mitigate climate change, we need eco-restoration through planting trees, restoring habitats, and reducing carbon emissions. We also need to educate people about conservation and sustainability. Government, civil society, and stakeholders must work together to balance economic growth and environmental protection. States should act as guardians of natural resources for long-term public good rather than short-term economic gains.