Bengaluru, September 12, 2023: Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India Pvt Ltd (MBRDI) has announced the successful conclusion of its 'Clean Green Nandi' project, a five-year initiative aimed at addressing environmental challenges and improving local livelihoods at Nandi Hills, Bengaluru. MBRDI, founded in 1996, stands as the primary research and development hub for Mercedes-Benz Group AG outside Germany, and is involved in advancing mobility technologies, including connected, autonomous, and electric solutions. Launched in 2018 in response to growing tourist activity in the area, which resulted in pollution, deforestation, and plastic waste accumulation, the ‘Clean Green Nandi’ project focused on scientific restoration efforts. MBRDI worked to restore water bodies, establish waste collection infrastructure, influence visitor behavior, and protect the biodiversity of Nandi Hills. The project achieved the collection and management of 46,000 Kgs of waste, 85 Lakh litres of pooled water, the construction of 11 check dams, and a 3% reduction in plastic generation.
“At MBRDI, we integrate sustainability into every facet of our operations. Aligned with the global sustainability agenda of Mercedes-Benz, our endeavours aim to create a positive influence on the lives of local communities and the surrounding environment. The 'Clean Green Nandi' project is an exemplary demonstration of our dedication to advancing environmental sustainability and fostering social cohesion,” said Shweta Pandey, Vice President and General Counsel, MBRDI.
According to the officials, the participation of more than 500 MBRDI employees, who collectively devoted nearly 5,000 hours to tree planting and clean-up activities, played a vital role in restoring the hills' natural equilibrium. In an effort to empower local livelihoods, MBRDI conducted a 45-day training program for local women, teaching them innovative ways to convert uprooted Lantana stems into eco-friendly household products. This initiative cleared 60 acres of Lantana, an invasive weed, and enabled women to earn sustainable livelihoods through a Self-Help Group.Additionally, MBRDI focused on the preservation of cultural heritage at Nandi Hills, including the restoration of the Armory, the creation of accessible pathways, and the installation of informative boards to enhance visitor awareness of the site's historical significance.
Sustainability is a core element of MBRDI's business strategy, with a commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility efforts centered around Sustainable Mobility and Environmental Sustainability. Its goal is to create value that is sustainable in economic, ecological, and social terms, aligning with global ambitions for a more sustainable future.
