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The Lantana Collective
Working collectively to push back the spread of Lantana and restore our ecosystems
What is
Lantana Camara?
Lantana, one of the world’s top invasive species, was introduced to India in the 1800s as a decorative plant. Now, it's wreaking havoc across our forests.
This toxic, inedible plant crowds out native vegetation and drives wildlife away, escalating human-animal conflicts. Its allelopathic chemicals stifle other plants, leading to biodiversity loss and harming local communities that rely on forest resources.
With its aggressive growth and thorny nature, Lantana is tough to manage and expensive to remove—costing up to ₹1 Cr INR per square kilometre. Effective control requires complete root removal and minimal soil disturbance to prevent regrowth.
Why
Lantana Collective ?
Why come together
Addressing the Lantana crisis demands a unified approach, as the widespread impact of this invasive species requires coordinated efforts for effective management.
Moreover, collaboration with grassroots ensures that community-led solutions are integrated and supported, fostering local ownership. Working together, we can tackle Lantana’s complex challenges more effectively and restore our ecosystems for future generations.
What We Do?
Collective Ecological Restoration
Our efforts are centred around restoring natural habitats by removing Lantana with minimal regrowth.
By studying the long-term impacts of Lantana, we aim to support the health and diversity of forest ecosystems.
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Support Community-Led Enterprises
Systematic Removal
We work with community-led enterprises that turn Lantana into valuable products such as art merchandise, furniture, and biomass. These initiatives create sustainable livelihoods while respecting traditional practices.
Our focus is on building a network of community-owned enterprises that support local economies and promote ecological balance.
We work closely with all stakeholders to find effective and sustainable methods for Lantana removal.
Our approach focuses on developing practical guidelines and sharing best practices to help restore ecosystems and improve livelihoods without disrupting existing frameworks.