Pune: Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), has marked a major environmental milestone with the creation of IONIQ Forest, one of Maharashtra’s largest urban forests, through the plantation of 1 million trees across 90.5 acres near Talegaon, Pune.
Developed within a year, the IONIQ Forest features 41 native tree species planted using the Miyawaki method, making it one of the most significant single-site, time-bound afforestation initiatives in the country.
The IONIQ Forest project commenced with ground clearance in May 2025, followed by a large-scale plantation drive on World Environment Day, June 5, 2025.
The forest was officially inaugurated in September 2025 by Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
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To ensure transparency and long-term maintenance, every tree planted under the initiative has been geo-tagged and equipped with QR codes, enabling real-time monitoring and data-driven upkeep.
Spanning 90.5 acres, the dense urban forest is projected to absorb nearly 63,000 tons of carbon dioxide over the next five years, contributing significantly to climate mitigation, biodiversity enhancement, and environmental resilience in the region.
Speaking on the initiative, Puneet Anand, AVP & Vertical Head – Corporate Affairs, Corporate Communication & Social, HMIL, said that the IONIQ Forest initiative represents Hyundai Motor India Foundation’s broader vision for sustainable development.
He highlighted that the successful plantation of 1 million trees at a single contiguous location within less than a year underscores Hyundai’s commitment to environmental stewardship, climate action, and responsible growth as the company continues to expand its footprint in Maharashtra.
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IONIQ Forest strengthens climate resilience through large-scale urban afforestation
Beyond its environmental impact, the IONIQ Forest initiative integrates social inclusion by generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for over 150 members of the local tribal community.
The project aligns ecological restoration with community empowerment, ensuring inclusive development alongside environmental conservation.
Once fully established, the forest is expected to evolve into an experiential learning space for schools, institutions, and local communities, fostering environmental awareness and encouraging sustainable practices among future generations.
The IONIQ Forest initiative forms part of HMIF’s broader ₹56 crore CSR investment in Maharashtra, spanning key focus areas such as environmental sustainability, healthcare, road safety, and community development, reinforcing Hyundai’s long-term commitment to the state.
