Ahmedabad has inaugurated Jade Earth Forest, Gujarat’s first community urban forest, developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) between the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and luxury lifestyle retail chain JadeBlue. The initiative, undertaken by JadeBlue’s CSR arm JadeEarth, is part of a nationwide effort to increase green cover, particularly in urban areas.
Located in Prahladnagar, the forest spans 3,200 square yards and features a three-layered ecosystem. It comprises over 2,000 native plant species, including 200 large trees for shade, 500 medium-sized trees, and 1,000 small plants and shrubs. The project integrates eco-friendly infrastructure, including pathways made from sustainable materials, a bird habitat with a dedicated pond to support avian biodiversity, and a rainwater harvesting system incorporating a traditional well for water conservation.
Additional features include a children’s activity area, an urban farming section, a seating and gathering space, a farmers’ market, and a compost pit.
Shambhav Chauhan, Managing Director of JadeBlue Lifestyle India Ltd., emphasized the project’s vision, stating, “Our aim is to create a thriving ecosystem that not only provides a natural oasis in the midst of urban chaos but also inspires individuals to take action towards environmental conservation.”