C. P. Suresh

Deforestation: Causes, Effects and Control Strategies

The year 2011 is ‘The International Year of Forests’. This designation has generated momentum bringing greater attention to the forests worldwide. Forests cover almost a third of the earth’s land surface providing many environmental benefits including a major role in the hydrologic cycle, soil conservation, prevention of climate change and preservation of biodiversity (Sheram, 1993). Forest resources can provide long-term national economic benefits. For example, at least 145 countries of the world are currently involved in wood production (Anon., 1994a). Sufficient evidence is available that the whole world is facing an environmental crisis on account of heavy deforestation. For years remorseless destruction of forests has been going on and we have not been able to comprehend the dimension until recently. Nobody knows exactly how much of the world’s rainforests have already been destroyed and continue to be razed each year. Data is often imprecise and subject to differing interpretations. However, it is obvious that the area of tropical rainforest is diminishing and the rate of tropical rain forest destruction is escalating worldwide, despite increased environmental activism and awareness.

Occurrence, distribution and economic potential of seashore mangosteen (Garcinia hombroniana Pierre) in India

Seashore mangosteen (Garcinia hombroniana Pierre), an important component of Garcinia gene pool, is useful as a rootstock and also in the genetic improvement of mangosteen. A brief description along with short notes on distribution and uses is given. Naturally occurring in Nicobar Islands and under cultivation in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, its germplasm needs to be collected and conserved for its potential horticultural value.

Production Constraints of Biodiesel and its Remedies in India with Special Reference to Jatropha

India with its dense population is more prone to energy crisis than its counterparts in other developed countries. Economic, energy along with environmental security concerns arising from overdependence on fossil fuel is now forcing the country to shift for alternative i.e. biofuel. India has a tremendous potential as a producer of biofuels. However, the present production capacity of biodiesel is constrained by the production of feed stocks. The target set by the proposed National Policy on Biofuels is 20 % biodiesel blending after 2017. This set target will only be a reality only when the constraints in biodiesel production and promotion are identified and addressed properly. The paper enlists these constraints and briefly suggests possible remedial measures with special reference to Jatropha so that the set Indian target may be achieved. KeywordsBiodiesel, Jatropha, Tree borne oilseed species, India