Mumbai, October 17, 2025: Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., has announced the successful plantation of five lakh trees under its flagship Hyundai IONIQ Forest initiative in Pune, Maharashtra. The milestone marks a significant step toward the project’s goal of planting 10 lakh trees across 90.5 acres within a year at Dange Chowk, Pimpri-Chinchwad — positioning it among the largest urban plantation efforts in the state.
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Shri Sunil Shelke, Hon’ble Member of Legislative Assembly, Maval Constituency; Shri Vishwajit Shrirang Barne; Dr. Ratikant Navtake, Assistant Commissioner, Department of Animal Husbandry, Tathwade; and senior representatives from Hyundai Motor India, including Mr. Jeongick Lee, Function Head – Corporate Affairs; Mr. Shyamkumar Singh, Function Lead – Production (Pune); and Mr. Puneet Anand, AVP & Vertical Head – Corporate Affairs, Corporate Communication & Social. Representatives from the Oriearth Nature Foundation also participated in the event.
Launched on World Environment Day, June 5, 2025, the IONIQ Forest initiative began with the plantation of 1,000 saplings using the Miyawaki method — a technique known for creating dense, biodiverse, and fast-growing forests. The project incorporates 41 native tree species, supporting biodiversity and creating natural habitats for birds, insects, and other fauna.
Over the next five years, the forest is projected to absorb around 63,000 tons of CO₂, contributing to climate resilience and sustainable growth. The initiative has also generated green employment for over 100 individuals from tribal communities and promotes ecosystem restoration, water conservation, and sustainable land management.
Shri Sunil Shelke, Hon’ble MLA, Maval Constituency, said, “This initiative is a powerful demonstration of corporate responsibility aligned with environmental stewardship. I congratulate the team behind this effort and encourage more such partnerships for a sustainable tomorrow.”
Mr. Puneet Anand, AVP & Vertical Head – Corporate Affairs, Corporate Communication & Social, HMIL, added, “Hyundai Motor India Limited is driving the IONIQ Forest program – a nationwide greening and afforestation effort spanning Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. This initiative is our way of giving back—not just to the environment, but to the communities we serve. Through the Miyawaki method, in Maharashtra we are creating a dense, biodiverse forest that supports local livelihoods, fosters community engagement, and promotes long-term sustainability.”
Once completed, the IONIQ Forest will be opened to schools and local communities for educational tours and environmental awareness programs, promoting a culture of sustainability among younger generations.
The initiative aligns with Hyundai Motor India Foundation’s broader ₹56 crore CSR investment in Maharashtra, supporting projects in environmental conservation, healthcare, road safety, and community development, in line with the state’s sustainability goals.
