India's First Study on 'Teal Carbon' at Keoladeo National Park (KNP)

Key Findings:

India's first study on teal carbon was conducted at Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan. The key findings include:

• Elevated methane emissions were detected in the wetland.
• The recommendation to use biochar to reduce these emissions.
• The study emphasizes the role of wetland conservation in climate adaptation and resilience.

About Teal Carbon:

Teal carbon refers to carbon stored in freshwater wetlands, including vegetation and organic matter. It plays a significant role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon, controlling greenhouse gases, and preventing floods.

Different Types of Carbon:

• Black Carbon: Emitted from burning fossil fuels; contributes to pollution.
• Brown Carbon: From incomplete combustion of organic materials; absorbs solar radiation.
• Blue Carbon: Stored in the atmosphere and oceans.
• Green Carbon: Sequestered in terrestrial plants via photosynthesis.
• Gray Carbon: Emitted from industrial processes.
• Red Carbon: Released from biological particles on snow and ice.

Role of Teal Carbon in Climate Change:

Teal carbon ecosystems help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon, controlling greenhouse gases, and preventing floods. They are primarily found in:

• Peatlands
• Freshwater swamps
• Natural marshes

Threats to Teal Carbon Ecosystems:

• Pollution
• Land use changes
• Water extraction

About Keoladeo National Park (KNP):

Keoladeo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. It is known for its avian diversity with over 365 species of birds, including the Siberian crane. The park is traversed by the Gambhir and Banganga rivers.

Conservation Initiatives:

• Montreux Record: Keoladeo National Park is listed on this record.
• World Wetlands Day: Celebrated globally to promote wetland conservation.
• National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP): Launched in 1985 to promote the conservation of wetlands in India.
• Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017: A national initiative for the management of wetlands.
• Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme: Another key initiative for wetland conservation.