Marking the World Ozone day on September 16, 35 Green Task Force volunteers from Sundaram Finance gathered in Rathinamangalam, Vandalur, for a tree-planting initiative on September 15, 2023. This commendable effort was made possible through our partnership with the NGO EFI (Environmentalist Foundation of India), which is dedicated to creating urban forests on Panchayat lands.

Our passionate and dedicated volunteers began their work promptly at 7.30 am and continued until 9 am, driven by enthusiasm and a strong sense of purpose planting a total of 90 saplings. The session began with an informative speech by EFI representatives, emphasizing the urgent need for tree planting and eco-friendly practices to ensure a sustainable future.

With high spirits, our volunteers divided tasks, with some digging pits, others carefully planting saplings, and some ensuring proper watering and care for each sapling. The tranquil natural surroundings of Rathinamangalam added to the enjoyment of the experience, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

The EFI NGO’s concept of creating urban forests on Panchayat lands involves taking responsibility for a piece of land, where native tree species are planted, effectively transforming it into an urban forest. These areas are well fenced, bore well installed, and post-maintenance activities are being taken care by the NGO, all supported by corporate sponsorships.

Our plantation activity has a dual impact, contributing to local habitat preservation and benefiting the community and the environment. It helps prevent soil erosion, enhances flood resilience, aids in carbon sequestration, and regulates temperatures.

We are immensely proud to have contributed to the creation of an urban forest and the preservation of the ecosystem and natural resources. This collaborative effort between Sundaram Finance Green Task Force and NGO EFI exemplifies the positive change achievable through community-driven environmental initiatives.