Large-scale regenerative agroforestry and agriculture project in Meghalaya
- Shillong, December 14, 2023 -

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Large-scale regenerative agroforestry and agriculture project in Meghalaya

Earthbanc is pleased to announce the official launch of the Meghalaya Reforestation and Sustainable Livelihoods Project (Regeneration Meghalaya) in north-east India, in partnership with AstraZeneca, Earthtree, Hill Farmers Shiitake Mushroom Coop Society and Worldview Impact (India).

The massive project launched with much fanfare and celebration at the Meghalaya Farmer’s Day, at an event graced by Honorable Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma Honorable Minister for Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, State Government of Meghalaya, delegates from Sweden embassy and British High Commission, along with representatives from AstraZeneca and all partner organisations. Regeneration Meghalaya Project is supported by AZ forest and aims to support farmers to restore 22,670 hectares supporting biodiversity and soil conservation, as well as climate and catchment health co-benefits.

Many of the species will be suitable for farmers to sustainably produce agricultural and agroforestry non-timber commodities, including essential oils and foods that align with the State Government of Meghalaya Aromatics Policy, and crop management that aligns with the Organic and Natural Farming Policy.

Around 200,000 trees have been planted, and now soil and water conservation works are underway to enable further planting of millions of trees in 2024. Biophysical indicators such as biomass, soil organic carbon, land productivity and land cover will be monitored in alignment with the UNCCD Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Global Mechanism of which, Government of India is a key signatory.

Managing Director at Worldview Impact (India), Ms. Ibadaphunshisha Blah, said: “We are pleased to coordinate the implementation of this project and expand the training programs we have been delivering over the last decade on fruits, vegetables, trees and aromatic grasses. Our experience in supporting farmers to plant a variety of biodiverse species has shown that it can increase their income and boost co-benefits such as catchment health, food diversity and associated human health outcomes – and this is what really drives our vision for this large project.”

CEO at Earthtree, Mr. Rishabh Khanna, said, “I am excited to announce this regenerative agroforestry project that will scale up natural farming, bamboo and orchards in alignment with the State Government of Meghalaya’s Aromatics and Natural Farming Policies. We are keen to support farmers to regenerate their land and grow healthy food to meet strong market demand, which will boost farmer income and increase prosperity.”

Dr Sanjeev Panchal, Country President and Managing Director, AstraZeneca India, said, “At AstraZeneca, we recognise that taking action to drive sustainability is fundamental – to build a healthy future for people, society, and the planet. Through AZ Forest, we are using a science- based approach to fund reforestation that not only helps to mitigate the effects of climate change, but has additional benefits for communities and economies.”

CEO at Earthbanc, Mr. Tom Duncan said: “This large-scale regeneration project is a very exciting opportunity that we are pleased to support in collaboration with our partners. We are impressed with the policies and programs of the State Government of Meghalaya and the Government of India, and we see the AZ Forest initiative with its focus on circular bioeconomy as very positive for the climate, communities, ecosystem health and a sustainable economy. We are looking forward to seeing this project launch and to helping create a healthy planet together.”

Ms. Louise Baker, Managing Director of the Global Mechanism of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), “This is a wonderful example of private sector leadership and joined up thinking in land stewardship. Earthbanc and its partners are fighting climate change and delivering for people and the land at the same time. The project’s strong focus on developing sustainable value chains that ensure farmers’ livelihoods will also mean land degradation stops as land cover, productivity and soil organic carbon all increase. Everyone benefits!”

Mr. Commander Shangpliang, Chairman of Hill Farmers Shiitake Mushroom Coop Society said, “The Regeneration Meghalaya project stands as a pivotal model demonstrating how reforestation initiatives can significantly combat climate change while fostering sustainable ecosystems and livelihoods.

Furthermore, the project promotes community engagement and participation, fostering environmental stewardship among local populations. I would like to express my gratitude to all the people involved in this project for coming to Meghalaya and supporting farmers through livelihood initiatives besides helping Meghalaya to become green again. Planting trees today is the only way to tackle climate change also as a gift to future generations with a sustainable legacy of a healthier planet.”

Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh said, “In the heart of Meghalaya, a green revolution is underway 'Regeneration Meghalaya' is not just a project; it is a commitment to plant hope, nurture sustainability, and grow a future where nature and agriculture thrive in harmony. Let us join hands with these determined associations as we plant 64 million trees and plants across 22,000 hectares. Together, let us cultivate a legacy of abundance.”

About the organisations

Worldview Impact Pvt Ltd (India) is a training, eco-tourism and regenerative agriculture project specialist that works with farmers in Meghalaya. The company has worked with women farmers and coops for over a decade.

Earthtree Enviro Pvt Ltd (India) is an agriculture and horticulture services provider that supports farmers to achieve their goals in producing sustainable agro commodities through regenerative land management.

Earthbanc AB (Sweden) is a green technology company based in Stockholm that supports regenerative agriculture and ecosystem restoration projects with innovative software, design, planning and funding. Earthbanc is a member of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance and Trillion Trees platform.

Hill Farmers Shiitake Mushroom Coop Society (India) is a Coop Society that works directly with farmers and landowners to grow mushrooms and trees for sustainable livelihoods.

AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca.com follow the Company on Twitter @AstraZeneca.