Group Landmark, under its initiative ROAR (Reduce to Zero, Add Responsibility), has embarked on a significant tree plantation drive using the Miyawaki concept. Guided by the principle "Take Responsibility & Make an Impact," the initiative focuses on creating dense, fast-growing urban forests that help combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and improve air quality. By adopting the Miyawaki method, Group Landmark is dedicated to restoring the environment efficiently, contributing to a greener future. Through ROAR, they aim to reduce their environmental footprint while empowering their employees and communities to take active roles in environmental conservation.

Plantation Date

Project Commencement: 22nd April 2024 ( Earth Day )

Project Completion: 5th June 2024 ( World Environment Day )

Event Location 

6H58+95X, Shertha, Gujarat 382422

Forest Type: Miyawaki 

Group Landmark, under its ROAR initiative (Reduce to Zero, Add Responsibility), has planted a Miyawaki forest in the premises of a specially-abled children's school, showcasing their commitment to both environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The Miyawaki method, known for creating dense, fast-growing forests, was implemented to transform the school grounds into a vibrant green space. This forest not only enhances biodiversity and improves air quality but also provides a calming and enriching environment for the students. With the guiding principle "Take Responsibility & Make an Impact," Group Landmark aims to create lasting positive change for both nature and the community.

Four Step Process of Planting a Miyawaki Forest:

1. Preparation and Analysis

• Site Analysis: Begin with a thorough analysis of the site, considering factors like soil type, water availability, and sunlight exposure. This analysis guides the selection of native plant species best suited for the location.
• Soil Preparation: Clear the area of weeds and debris. Loosen the soil by tilling and amend it with organic compost to enhance fertility and moisture retention.

2. Plant Selection and Planting

• Plant Selection: Choose native plant species that are fast-growing, drought-resistant, and indigenous to the region. Diversity is crucial to mimic natural forests and promote ecological balance.
• Planting Technique: Dig pits or trenches for planting saplings, ensuring each has enough space to grow. Plant at a high density, typically 3 to 5 times denser than traditional forests.

3. Care and Maintenance

• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the saplings to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and protect the soil from erosion. Mulch also enriches the soil as it decomposes.
• Watering: Initially, saplings need regular watering to establish their roots. Once established, they require less frequent watering, but regular monitoring remains essential.

4. Monitoring and Growth

• Regular Maintenance: Perform regular weeding, pruning, and pest control during the initial years. Miyawaki forests become self-sustainable as they mature but still require occasional maintenance.
• Monitoring: Keep track of the forest's growth and health, monitoring for signs of stress, disease, or pest infestations and taking timely action when needed.

Four Layers of a Miyawaki Forest

The Miyawaki method emphasizes creating a multi-layered forest that mimics natural forests to achieve rapid growth and high biodiversity. Here are the four layers typically found in a Miyawaki forest:

• Canopy Layer: This topmost layer consists of tall trees that provide the canopy. These trees are usually fast-growing species that can reach heights of 15 to 30 meters or more. They offer shade and protection to the layers below.
• Tree Layer: Beneath the Canopy layer is the tree layer, consisting of smaller trees and larger shrubs. These plants help fill in the gaps between the taller trees, contributing to the dense foliage that characterizes a mature forest.
• Shrub Layer: Below the canopy, the shrub layer includes smaller shrubs and bushes that provide additional structure and diversity to the forest. These plants play a vital role in attracting pollinators and providing habitat for various wildlife.
• Ground Layer: The lowest layer is the ground layer, comprising ground covers, ferns, and herbaceous plants. These plants help to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the soil. They also contribute to the overall biodiversity by providing habitat for insects and microorganisms.

Each layer in a Miyawaki forest serves a unique purpose and contributes to the forest's resilience, biodiversity, and ecological functionality.

Trees Planted

Activities During Plantation Drive 

Group Landmark initiated a tree plantation activity using the Miyawaki concept, a method known for creating dense, fast-growing forests, in the premises of a school for specially-abled children. Employees and volunteers actively participated in planting a diverse range of native trees, ensuring they were carefully placed in pre-prepared pits for optimal growth. After the planting, participants watered the saplings, providing them with the necessary care to flourish. This initiative not only promoted environmental sustainability but also created a nurturing green space for the school community, reinforcing Group Landmark's commitment to making a lasting, positive impact.

Tree Plantation Purpose

ROAR

Group Landmark is taking a stand for a greener future with their ROAR initiative, which stands for Reduce to Zero, Add Responsibly. This program focuses on minimizing their environmental footprint throughout their operations.

Reduce to Zero: This aspect likely targets minimizing waste and emissions. Group Landmark could be looking at areas like reducing paper usage, optimizing energy consumption in their dealerships, and exploring ways to minimize waste generated during vehicle servicing.

Add Responsibly: Here, the focus might be on incorporating sustainable practices. This could involve using eco-friendly materials in their dealerships, offering electric or hybrid vehicles, and potentially even exploring partnerships for responsible waste disposal or carbon offset programs.

Three Pillars of CSR
Our approach to CSR revolves around three pillars:

• Planet: Focusing on creating a healthier planet through sustainable initiatives.
• People: Investing in the well-being and growth of our communities.
• Prosperity: Striving for prosperity by ensuring the planet and its people thrive together.

SDG Goals Achieved 

The Miyawaki method can significantly help Group Landmark achieve several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The Miyawaki forest improves air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, contributing to a healthier environment at the school. The green space also provides therapeutic benefits, especially for specially-abled children, by creating a calming atmosphere and offering stimulating sensory experiences, which enhance both mental and physical well-being.

2. SDG 4: Quality Education

The Miyawaki forest serves as an outdoor classroom, providing a natural learning environment that caters to the unique needs of specially-abled children. It promotes environmental education, enabling hands-on learning about biodiversity, conservation, and the importance of nature, fostering a deeper connection to the environment.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

By planting the forest on the premises of a school for specially-abled children, this initiative supports inclusivity and social equity. It ensures that all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to green spaces, demonstrating a commitment to reducing inequalities and promoting social inclusion.

4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Creating a Miyawaki forest within the school’s grounds contributes to urban sustainability by enhancing green spaces. It benefits both the school and the surrounding community by improving air quality, reducing pollution, and supporting efforts to make cities and communities more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

5. SDG 13: Climate Action

The Miyawaki method’s dense, fast-growing forests help sequester carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change mitigation. Group Landmark’s initiative aligns with global climate action goals, reducing the carbon footprint and promoting long-term climate resilience.

6. SDG 15: Life on Land

The Miyawaki plantation boosts local biodiversity by focusing on native tree species, which foster rich ecosystems. This contributes to the conservation and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems, supporting sustainable land management and enhancing biodiversity in the area.

7. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Through a strategic alliance with Grow Billion Trees, Group Landmark has developed a Miyawaki forest within the premises of a specially-abled children’s school, promoting environmental sustainability and creating a natural learning environment. Grow Billion Trees played a vital role in bridging the company with the school , providing the expertise and resources needed to implement the Miyawaki method effectively.

This partnership has created a positive impact, enhancing biodiversity, supporting environmental education, and fostering inclusivity for the specially-abled children while advancing sustainability goals.

ESG Goals Achieved

Environmental (E)

The Miyawaki forest directly contributes to environmental sustainability by enhancing biodiversity, improving air quality, and mitigating climate change. With 17,000 trees planted, the project significantly increases green cover, supports various species of flora and fauna, and sequesters carbon dioxide. This contributes to the long-term health of the local ecosystem and aligns with the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.

Social (S)

Socially, the project has a profound impact on the local community, particularly the specially abled children at the school. The forest provides a green space that will be used for educational purposes, promoting environmental awareness and hands-on learning. It also improves the well-being of students and staff by offering a peaceful, natural environment. Additionally, as the forest develops into a community park, it will enhance social cohesion and provide a recreational space for the local population, fostering a sense of community ownership and pride.

Governance (G)

From a governance perspective, the project exemplifies responsible corporate citizenship and effective stakeholder collaboration. Group Landmark’s initiative, executed in partnership with Grow Billion Trees, demonstrates strong governance practices by aligning with global sustainability standards and goals. The project’s transparent implementation and ongoing management reflect a commitment to ethical practices, accountability, and long-term sustainability. This initiative also supports the organization’s broader ESG strategy by contributing to community development and environmental stewardship.

Comittment by Grow Billion Trees

Grow Billion Trees is committed to driving sustainable plantation efforts, ensuring every initiative aligns with key environmental objectives and promotes long-term ecological balance. They focus on selecting native tree species that are well-adapted to local ecosystems, ensuring a higher survival rate and stronger environmental impact.

To maintain plant health and longevity, Grow Billion Trees emphasizes continuous maintenance and regular monitoring of the plantations. This approach helps ensure that each tree thrives, contributing effectively to both biodiversity and climate resilience.

Transparency is a core principle in their operations. Clients receive comprehensive reports, including geo-tagging of planted trees, survival rate updates, and ongoing progress reports. This level of openness allows clients to track the direct impact of their contributions, reinforcing trust and accountability.

Through their dedication to sustainable practices, Grow Billion Trees ensures that every plantation project leaves a lasting positive footprint on both the environment and the local communities it serves.

Summary of Plantation Activity

By implementing Miyawaki forests, Group Landmark can make significant strides toward achieving several SDG goals, particularly those related to environmental sustainability, community well-being, and responsible business practices. This approach not only contributes to the company’s sustainability initiatives but also enhances its reputation as a forward-thinking, socially responsible organization.