Workshop on bamboo certification

SHILLONG, Feb 28: In a significant step towards sustainable resource management, a workshop on Sustainable Management of Bamboo Forests and Certification was held in the city on Friday.
The event brought together key stakeholders, experts, and bamboo growers to explore the path toward a robust bamboo certification system for Meghalaya.
The workshop underscored the multifaceted benefits of bamboo certification. Environmentally, it safeguards biodiversity, strengthens soil and water conservation efforts, and reduces ecological strain. Economically, it boosts product value and opens doors to lucrative markets, offering local communities a chance to tap into the growing global demand for sustainable goods. Socially, it recognizes and rewards indigenous knowledge, ensuring that traditionally nurtured bamboo forests receive fair compensation and respect.
Dr S C Gairola, Country Director of the Forest Stewardship Council in India, shed light on how certification can position Meghalaya as a leader in sustainable bamboo production. His insights were complemented by Aadarsh Mohandas, Regional Director of Preferred by Nature, Bengaluru, who outlined the step-by-step process and methodology involved in obtaining bamboo certification.
The workshop saw the participation of prominent officials and representatives from the Agriculture, Horticulture, and Soil & Water Conservation Departments.
More than 30 Farmer-Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups, Farmer-Producer Companies, and MBDA officials engaged in discussions, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges with bamboo certification.
A recurring theme throughout the workshop was the need for policy alignment. With certification, Meghalaya can synchronize its efforts with national and global sustainability goals, strengthening its position in the green economy. This move is not just about preserving natural resources — it’s about creating a future where economic prosperity and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.