NEW DELHI (India CSR): EY Global Delivery Services (EY GDS) has undertaken a large-scale tree plantation drive in the National Capital Region (NCR). In collaboration with Grow-Trees and guidance from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the organization has pledged to plant 15,000 trees at Baansera DDA Land near the Yamuna riverbank. This initiative aims to improve air quality, mitigate urban heat island effect and contribute to the city’s overall ecological health.
Addressing Environmental Challenges in Delhi
The country’s capital city, particularly its Yamuna riverfront area, experiences environmental challenges due to pollution and its limited green cover. Additionally, the dense urban infrastructure also contributes to the urban heat island effect, impacting local temperatures and overall liveability in the city. As a result, urban greening has become a crucial strategy for countering these effects and restoring environmental balance in the region.
Two-Phase Tree Plantation Initiative
The tree-planting initiative by EY GDS will be executed in two phases. In Phase 1 on February 21, 2025, 600+ EY GDS volunteers planted 4,000 trees. The tree species have been selected based on their pollution tolerance, adaptability to Delhi’s climate and ecological benefits. These include Arjuna (air-purifying properties); Jamun (enhancing biodiversity); Karanj (known for resilience); and Shisham (strengthening soil and reducing erosion).
Aligning with DDA’s Vision for Urban Regeneration
The project is aligned with the DDA’s broader vision for urban regeneration and green infrastructure development. By restoring the Yamuna riverbank’s natural environment, the plantation drive will serve as a long-term investment in Delhi’s sustainability.
Manesh Patel on EY GDS’s Commitment to Sustainability
Manesh Patel, Global Operations Leader, EY GDS, stated: “At EY GDS, we are committed to creating a lasting environmental impact through meaningful actions. Our tree plantation initiative in NCR reflects our dedication to sustainability, urban greening, and ecological restoration. By planting 15,000 trees in collaboration with local authorities, we aim to improve air quality, combat urban heat, and contribute to a healthier, greener future for generations to come. We are proud of this initiative and hope to make a real difference on the ground.”
Rumi Mallick Mitra on Collective Environmental Efforts
Rumi Mallick Mitra, Director, Corporate Responsibility, EY GDS, commented: “Organizations have a responsibility to contribute to bettering our living spaces. This plantation drive is a small step and effort toward this goal. The deteriorating urban environment, and growing air and water pollution are complex environmental issues that require concerted and collective efforts by all stakeholders. We are grateful for this opportunity to support such efforts. Our employees are conscious of this challenge, and caring and taking them along this journey makes our experience more meaningful.”
Collaborative Action for a Greener Future
The tree-planting initiative is a testament to the collaborative action between the corporate sector, local authorities, and environmental organizations. The Delhi Development Authority has recognized the importance of such initiatives in combating pollution and improving city-wide green infrastructure. By integrating urban forestry efforts with broader environmental policies, the initiative aims to create a lasting impact.
EY GDS Reinforces Commitment to Sustainability
With this latest initiative, EY GDS continues to reinforce its commitment to sustainability and community-driven impact. The organization remains dedicated to scaling up environmental efforts and inspiring action for a cleaner, healthier future.
(India CSR)
