In a world increasingly impacted by climate change and environmental degradation, the concept of ecological restoration has emerged as a critical necessity. Pradip Krishen, a filmmaker turned ecological restoration expert, has dedicated his life to understanding and rehabilitating India’s damaged landscapes. Through a series of pioneering projects, he has reshaped the narrative around what it means to restore nature.
Journey of an Ecological Pioneer
Krishen’s foray into the realm of ecological restoration began in 1994, sparked by a film shoot in Madhya Pradesh. This unexpected journey led him to explore myriads of native plants and the ecological principles underlying their existence. His first significant restoration project, the Rao Jodha National Park in Jodhpur, marked a turning point. Here, Krishen faced the daunting challenge of reviving a rocky desert ecosystem with minimal soil and harsh growing conditions.
Reflecting on his experience at Rao Jodha, Krishen, in an interview with local media, stated, “The best bet would be to restore the natural ecology of the rocky desert… unless we can grow things that can grow here alone, there is no point.” This principle guided his approach, emphasizing the need for native species that can thrive without excess irrigation or artificial support.
Misconception of Restoration
Krishen articulates a critical misconception surrounding ecological restoration—that it is merely about planting trees.
“Unfortunately, that’s the way it has been perceived because that’s what governments do. And that is such a narrow perception of what restoration is,” he pointed out. Restoration goes beyond mere tree planting; it involves understanding an ecosystem’s historical context, the disturbances it has faced, and how best to revive its natural state.
His methodology includes careful experimentation and meticulous note-taking, particularly in the project’s early years at Rao Jodha.
“The first three years were slow—learning by mistakes and taking very, very careful notes,” he recalled. This meticulous approach helped increase survival rates of planted species as he adapted strategies based on observation and results, finding patterns that hold the key to successful restoration.
Metrics for Green Growth
One of the core challenges of restoration is determining when a landscape is truly degraded and in need of intervention. For Krishen, the existence of reference sites—areas of rich biodiversity—serves as a benchmark.
“If you find reference sites that are much richer and diverse… it becomes one way of judging whether it is degraded,” he explained. For example, Delhi’s Ridge area, once overgrazed and suffering from invasive species, underscores how historical context is necessary in evaluating and addressing ecological health.
Looking Ahead
At 75, Krishen has pivoted from fieldwork to authoring books which encapsulate his experiences and insights into native ecosystems. His writing seeks to share the complexity and excitement of ecological restoration, revealing the lessons learned from numerous experiments and trials.
“Writing doesn’t come easily to me. But it’s hugely enjoyable,” he admited, showcasing the same passion for elucidation that has driven his restoration efforts.
As he continues to influence the field, Krishen emphasizes the importance of expanding the definition of ecological restoration. The focus should not solely be on aesthetics or tree count but on genuine revitalization of ecosystems, rooted in solid ecological principles and a deep understanding of history.
Pradip Krishen stands as a testament to how indomitable curiosity and commitment can redefine environmental action, ensuring that India’s landscapes not only survive but thrive in their natural glory. His journey, marked by a blend of art and science, serves as an inspiring model for future generations of environmentalists and ecological stewards. With more discourse and action around ecological restoration, there lies hope for the Earth’s ecosystems amidst the growing climate crisis.
– Raja Aditya
