CSR initiative transforms 90-acre stretch into thriving urban green ecosystem
PUNE, Oct 16 (The CONNECT) -The Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., has completed the plantation of five lakh trees under its flagship IONIQ Forest initiative, marking a major milestone in its mission to create one of Maharashtra’s largest urban forests. The project, spread across 90.5 acres at Dange Chowk, Pimpri-Chinchwad, aims to reach a target of ten lakh trees within a year.
The event drew the presence of Sunil Shelke, MLA of Maval Constituency; Vishwajit Shrirang Barne; Dr. Ratikant Navtake, Assistant Commissioner, Department of Animal Husbandry, Pune; and senior executives from Hyundai Motor India, including Jeongick Lee, Shyamkumar Singh, and Puneet Anand, alongside representatives from Oriearth Nature Foundation.
Launched on World Environment Day 2025, the IONIQ Forest began with the planting of 1,000 saplings using the Miyawaki technique, known for creating dense, self-sustaining mini-forests that mimic natural ecosystems. The forest now includes 41 native tree species, improving biodiversity, restoring habitats for birds and pollinators, and enhancing soil and water conservation.
“This initiative demonstrates how corporate action can drive sustainable change,” said MLA Sunil Shelke, praising Hyundai’s commitment to community-led greening efforts.
According to Puneet Anand, AVP & Vertical Head – Corporate Affairs, Corporate Communication & Social, HMIL, “IONIQ Forest represents Hyundai’s long-term pledge to environmental stewardship and social inclusion. Beyond reforestation, it’s about creating livelihoods, restoring ecosystems, and building a climate-resilient future.”
The forest is expected to absorb around 63,000 tons of CO₂ over five years, while generating green jobs for over 100 tribal workers. It also integrates rainwater harvesting and check dams, ensuring sustainable land use and water retention.
Once fully developed, the site will serve as an eco-education hub, open to schools and local communities for workshops and awareness programmes.
With a ₹56 crore CSR commitment across Maharashtra, Hyundai continues to invest in projects spanning environment, healthcare, road safety, and community welfare, reinforcing its role as a corporate leader in sustainability.
