Noida: In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship, the HCL Foundation, the CSR arm of HCLTech, recently collaborated with the Give Me Trees Trust to organise an ambitious tree plantation initiative. This joint effort aims to transform barren landscapes into thriving green spaces by planting thousands of native trees, fostering biodiversity, and engaging communities in ecological restoration.
The Give Me Trees Trust, founded by Peepal Baba, has led large-scale afforestation efforts across India, planting approximately 20 million trees, including 12 million Peepal (Ficus religiosa), 4 million Neem, and a diverse range of fruit trees. This initiative has spread its impact across 17 states, 700 villages, and 600 schools. Through their signature Uday Upvan initiative, they turned degraded land into a lively urban forest in Sorkha village, Noida—teeming with over 66,000 plants, native tree varieties, water bodies, and aquatic ecosystems that now support rich wildlife and provide environmental benefits to local communities. Meanwhile, the HCL Foundation brought critical institutional support to the partnership, contributing expertise, resources, and volunteer mobilisation to bring the green vision to life across diverse regions.
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Why planting trees matters and why everyone should get involved
- Shield our climate and clean our air
Trees are natural carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂, one of the primary greenhouse gases. A single mature tree can capture nearly 22 kilograms of CO₂ annually, helping buffer climate change, reduce urban temperatures, and improve air quality. - Protect biodiversity & water resources
Trees create habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Their roots anchor soil to prevent erosion and promote water infiltration, recharging underground aquifers and reducing runoff, which helps prevent floods and droughts alike. - Boost health & community well-being
Green spaces lower stress levels, improve mental health, and foster a sense of community. They invite outdoor recreation and a connection to nature that’s nourishing for individuals and neighbourhoods alike. - Economic & cultural uplift
Fruit-bearing trees yield nutritious food, fuel, and economic opportunities for local communities. Tree-lined streets and green urban centres enhance property values, tourism, and overall liveability, creating a win for both the environment and socio-economic progress. - A symbol of hope & collective action
Planting a tree is a simple, yet powerful act of hope. It represents long-term thinking and commitment to future generations. Each sapling is a living legacy, a reminder that small steps, taken together, can grow into meaningful change.
Call to action
Everyone has a role to play in nurturing our planet. Consider planting a tree in your home, school, or neighbourhood and caring for it over time. Join local afforestation drives, volunteer with environmental NGOs, or simply advocate for green cover in your community.
Every tree planted today grows into a beacon of resilience, strengthening ecosystems, communities, and our collective future.