Amazon, the global e-commerce giant, has pledged $3 million towards nature-based projects in India as part of its $15 million fund allocated for projects in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. The collaboration with the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS) aims to support communities and conservation efforts in the biodiverse Western Ghats.
Landscape view of tea plantations and the Muthirapuzha River, Munnar, Kerala, India.
The Western Ghats, home to 30% of India's wildlife species, including Asiatic elephants and tigers, will benefit from Amazon's $1 million contribution to establish the Wild Carbon programme. This initiative will aid 10,000 farmers in cultivating one million fruit-bearing, timber, and medicinal trees.
Kara Hurst, Amazon's Global VP for Sustainability, emphasised the vulnerability of the APAC region to climate change and biodiversity loss, underscoring Amazon's commitment to both large-scale and local action.
Read more: Deforestation in Asia: a call for conservation
The funding derives from Amazon's $100 million Right Now Climate Fund, established in 2019, which focuses on nature conservation and restoration projects that enhance climate resilience and biodiversity while benefitting communities.
CWS Executive Director Krithi Karanth expressed gratitude for Amazon's support, emphasising the programme's long-term sustainability. The Climate Pledge, co-founded by Amazon, is also making strides, with over 400 signatories across 38 nations, including nine Indian companies.
Read more: Reshaping India debt landscape: $30 billion in sustainable finance through green bonds
Amazon is actively pursuing renewable energy initiatives in India, including solar farms in Rajasthan and wind-solar hybrid projects in Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. These efforts align with its goal to power its global operations with 100% renewable energy by 2025.
In the global endeavour to combat deforestation and safeguard our planet's precious biodiversity, Amazon's $3 million investment in India's nature-based projects, in collaboration with the Centre for Wildlife Studies, is a significant stride forward. This partnership reflects Amazon's dedication to supporting local communities and preserving vital ecosystems in the Western Ghats.
DGB Group shares Amazon’s commitment to reforestation and the wellbeing of our planet as we work to create a sustainable and prosperous future for all. Together, through innovative carbon projects and unwavering determination, we can protect the Earth's invaluable ecosystems and make a tangible difference. Join us in this vital mission to save our planet.
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