KKR Runs to Roots: Making Every Match Count for Nature

At Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), sustainability is more than a responsibility it is a shared passion, deeply inspired by our co-owner, Ms. Juhi Chawla Mehta, whose unwavering commitment to environmental causes fuels our vision. Harnessing the unifying power of cricket, we have launched our flagship green initiative, “Runs to Roots.”

Under this initiative, KKR has pledged to plant a tree for every run scored by the team during the IPL season. These trees will be planted across Kolkata and Howrah, gradually transforming urban spaces into thriving green pockets that enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and restore ecological balance in densely populated areas.

“Runs to Roots” goes beyond plantation it is a step towards combating climate change, restoring ecosystems, and building healthier cities for future generations. Each tree stands as a symbol of resilience and hope, turning every run on the field into a lasting environmental impact.

With this initiative, we believe every run truly counts living on as a tree rooted in the promise of a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable tomorrow.

Tree Plantation Date & Location

October 11th, 2025 to October 15th, 2025: Behala, Sarsuna, No. 3  Lake, Kolkata, West Bengal 700061

January 10th, 2026: 4, Rabindranath Tagore Rd, Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700056

April 18th 2026: CIT Rd, Subhas Sarobar Park, Phoolbagan, Beleghata, Kolkata, West Bengal 700010

June 27th, 2026: Subhas Sarobar Lake, Beleghata, Kolkata, West Bengal 700010

Trees Planted

Total Count: 4050 Trees

Species Name: Guava, Nimbu, Mahogany, Mimusops elengi, Sal, Lagerstroemia, Tabebuia, Spathodea, Mango, Dillenia indica, Sagwan (Teak), Callistemon (Bottle Brush), Arjun, Chikoo, Gulmohar (Delonix regia), Harsingar, Jamun, Water Apple, Areca Nut, Cassia fistula, Peltophorum, Tamarind, Amla, Suran Champa, Neem, Hibiscus, Pomegranate, Bel, Palash, Juhi, Longan, Tabernaemontana, Nerium, Alstonia, Plumeria, Jasmine, Saraca indica (Ashoka), Murraya (Madhu Kamini), Badam (Terminalia catappa), Kadamba, Silver Oak, Polyalthia longifolia (Ashoka Pindola), Jackfruit, Karanj, Kachnar, Rain Tree, Bombax, Custard Apple, Star Fruit, Litchi, Sissoo

Beneficiaries Details

• Target Population: Team members, stakeholders, and local community members of Kolkata/Howrah

• Age Group: All age groups focus on adults to seniors

• Gender:  Inclusive of all genders

• Social & Economic Status: Open to all social and economic backgrounds, emphasizing community involvement

Forest Type: Conventional Forest

Conventional tree plantation refers to the planned plantation of trees and vegetation in designated open areas to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, support soil conservation, and create green spaces for community well-being. It helps mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, strengthens ecological balance, and supports local wildlife by creating natural habitats. Such plantations also contribute to improved microclimate conditions, reduce dust pollution, and promote long-term environmental sustainability. Conventional plantations play a vital role in restoring green cover and building healthier, more resilient ecosystems for both the environment and surrounding communities.

Advantages of Conventional Tree Plantation

• Climate Regulation and Cooling Effect: Conventional forests help reduce local heat stress by providing shade and cooling through transpiration. This lowers surrounding temperatures, reduces the need for air conditioning, and supports energy conservation.

• Improved Air Quality: Trees absorb pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, improving overall air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses in the surrounding areas.

• Stormwater Management and Flood Prevention: Conventional forests enhance the soil’s ability to absorb and retain water, reducing stormwater runoff, preventing flooding, and promoting groundwater recharge, thereby supporting efficient water resource management.

• Soil Erosion Control: The deep root systems of trees help prevent soil erosion, especially in areas with heavy rainfall, stabilising land and reducing soil loss in plantation landscapes.

• Aesthetic and Recreational Value: Converting unused or underutilised spaces into green zones enhances the visual appeal of the area and provides employees and local communities with recreational spaces, contributing to a more pleasant environment.

• Enhanced Community Engagement and Well-being: Conventional forests offer accessible green spaces where communities can engage in recreational activities, improving mental well-being, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among residents and employees.

• Increased Property Value: Properties located near plantations or green spaces often experience higher market value, benefiting local property owners and increasing the overall livability of the surrounding area.

• Noise Reduction: Conventional forests act as natural sound barriers by absorbing and deflecting noise, reducing noise pollution and creating calmer and more peaceful surroundings.

Commitment by Grow Billion Trees

• Ensuring Tree Survivability: GBT prioritizes native species, continuous monitoring, and soil health improvement using organic fertilizers. These efforts ensure sustainable growth and benefit the farmers and communities.

• Transparency & Accountability: GBT provides detailed reports on tree growth, survival rates, and carbon benefits, using geo-fencing and regular updates to maintain transparency and effectiveness.

• Sustainable Plantation Efforts: GBT implements projects that balance environmental, social, and economic goals, addressing urban heat islands and degraded farmlands. These efforts promote ecological balance, livelihoods, and long-term climate resilience.

• Enhancing Ecosystem Health: By selecting native species and creating diverse habitats, GBT enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, ensuring long-term ecological health and supporting wildlife.

• Long-Term Impact: GBT’s initiatives tackle environmental challenges, enhance rural livelihoods, foster climate resilience, and promote sustainable development while reducing carbon footprints.

Acknowledgment

We at Grow Billion Trees extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the tree plantation initiative in Kolkata. This project, which combines environmental sustainability with community engagement, would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of our dedicated employees, local authorities, and partners. Their collective efforts in planting and nurturing trees are helping create a greener and more resilient future for local communities. We sincerely appreciate their commitment to fostering biodiversity, improving air quality, and promoting long-term sustainability.

To Kolkata Knight Rider: We sincerely thank you for your dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Your meaningful contribution towards tree plantation initiative has laid the foundation for a greener and more resilient future in Kolkata. Through your efforts, 2050 trees have been planted under the systematic plantation approach, supporting biodiversity, enhancing air quality, and creating long-lasting positive impacts on the environment. Together, we have built a legacy that will continue to benefit communities and contribute to a sustainable tomorrow.

To Our Ground Partners and Volunteers: Your expertise, dedication, and passion for environmental sustainability have been crucial to the success of this initiative. Through your collaborative efforts, we have made significant progress in creating greener spaces and promoting biodiversity across Kolkata. Your contributions have not only strengthened the environment but also encouraged community participation and awareness. Together, we are building a more sustainable future, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in creating a greener, healthier world for all. 

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment.

Closing Remarks

We are proud to have partnered with Kolkata Knight Riders in this journey toward environmental sustainability through our tree plantation initiative in Kolkata. This project has not only contributed to enhancing green cover but has also fostered a strong sense of community involvement and environmental responsibility. It highlights the power of collaboration, where every effort no matter how small brings us closer to a healthier and more sustainable future.

As we look forward to the continued success of this initiative, we remain committed to expanding our efforts and encouraging more organizations and communities to join hands in creating lasting positive change. Together, we are building a foundation for a world where environmental sustainability, community empowerment, and responsible practices flourish.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this meaningful initiative. Let’s continue working together to create a greener future for both today and generations to come.