Light & Wonder’s Chennai tree plantation initiative is a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability and employee engagement. Focused on transforming urban spaces into lush green zones, the initiative was conducted on September 12, 2024, at Elcot SEZ, Sholinganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, where 233 native trees, including Neem, Sapota, Badam, Guava, and Poovarasu, were planted.

By creating an urban forest, the initiative addresses key environmental challenges such as air pollution, the urban heat island effect, and biodiversity loss while also enhancing the city's green cover. Employees actively participated in tree planting, engaging in a hands-on experience that fostered teamwork, environmental awareness, and a deeper connection with nature.

The initiative aligns with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduce Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), reinforcing Light & Wonder’s dedication to corporate social responsibility.

In collaboration with Grow Billion Trees, the initiative ensures long-term ecological impact through continuous monitoring and maintenance. By integrating sustainability into its business ethos, Light & Wonder is not only mitigating climate change but also cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship among its employees. Through this initiative, the company is planting the seeds for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Chennai.

Project Planning & Execution

No of Trees: 233

Plantation Location: Elcot Sez, Sholinganallur Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119

Plantation Date: 12th September 2024

Name Of Species And Its Benefits

Beneficiaries Details

Target Population: Employees, stakeholders, and local community members of Chennai.

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.

Planting Methodology and Its Advantages

Urban Forest

An urban forest is a network of trees, shrubs, and vegetation strategically planted in urban areas to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and provide green spaces for community well-being. It helps mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, promotes mental health through accessible green areas, and supports local wildlife by creating habitats. Urban forests play a vital role in building resilient, sustainable cities that benefit both the environment and the people who live in them.

Advantages of Urban Forest

• Climate Regulation and Cooling Effect: Urban forests help mitigate the urban heat island effect by providing shade and cooling through transpiration, lowering temperatures in cities, reducing the need for air conditioning, and conserving energy.

• Improved Air Quality: Trees absorb pollutants like carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, leading to improved air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses in urban areas.

• Stormwater Management and Flood Prevention: Urban forests improve soil’s ability to absorb and retain water, reducing stormwater runoff, preventing flooding, and promoting groundwater recharge, thus helping manage water resources efficiently.

• Soil Erosion Control: The deep root systems of trees prevent soil erosion, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or steep slopes, stabilizing the land and reducing soil loss in urban environments.

• Aesthetic and Recreational Value: The transformation of unused spaces into green zones adds aesthetic value to the area and provides employees and local communities with recreational spaces, making the workplace more enjoyable.

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

• Increased Property Value: Properties located near urban forests or green spaces tend to have higher market values, benefiting local property owners and increasing the overall appeal and livability of the area.

• Noise Reduction: Urban forests act as natural sound barriers, reducing noise pollution and creating quieter, more peaceful surroundings.

Activities During Tree Plantation

During the Light & Wonder Chennai tree plantation initiative, employees enthusiastically participated in hands-on environmental action. Since the plantation site was prepared beforehand, the team focused on carefully planting the saplings in pre-dug pits, ensuring proper alignment and spacing for healthy growth. Each sapling was gently placed into the soil and secured to provide stability. After planting, employees watered the saplings to help them establish strong roots and adapt to their new environment. The activity not only contributed to enhancing the green cover of Chennai but also fostered a sense of environmental responsibility and teamwork among participants.

Impact

Direct Impact

*This impact analysis is forward-looking (An urban-forestry project matures in 3-5 years)

Indirect Impact

Community Impact

Improved Public Health: By improving air quality and reducing urban heat, the project indirectly contributes to better public health. The presence of green spaces encourages outdoor activities, which can reduce stress levels, promote mental well-being, and decrease the incidence of respiratory diseases.

Environmental Awareness: Involving communities in urban forestry raises awareness about environmental conservation and promotes sustainable practices in daily life.

Employee Morale: The initiative fostered a sense of pride and connection among employees, strengthening team bonds and their alignment with the company’s values.

Inspiration for Change: By showcasing the potential of urban forestry, the project has encouraged other organizations and local communities to undertake similar initiatives.

Cultural Shift: The initiative instilled a mindset of sustainability and environmental care among participants, creating advocates for green practices in their personal and professional lives.

Environmental Impact

Carbon Sequestration: The trees planted through Light & Wonder's urban forestry initiative absorb carbon dioxide, acting as carbon sinks and helping mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Soil Health Improvement: The tree planting initiative enhances soil health by enriching it with organic matter, improving soil fertility and structure, which supports the growth of surrounding vegetation.

Erosion Prevention: Tree roots help stabilize the soil in urban areas, preventing erosion caused by wind and water, while safeguarding nearby properties and infrastructure from potential damage.

Biodiversity Conservation: By creating green spaces, the initiative supports local biodiversity, providing habitats for various species, pollinators, and beneficial insects, and enhancing the ecological balance in urban areas.

Water Cycle Regulation: The urban forestry project helps regulate the water cycle by improving water retention in the soil, recharging groundwater levels, and reducing surface runoff, leading to a more balanced and sustainable urban environment.

Microclimate Regulation: Trees planted through this initiative moderate temperature extremes, reduce wind speeds, and increase humidity, creating a favorable microclimate for both the community and the urban ecosystem.

Achievements

SDG Goals Achieved Through Urban Forest

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being - The project improves air quality and provides green spaces for physical and mental well-being, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing stress in urban environments.

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation - Trees help manage water retention, reduce runoff, and recharge groundwater, contributing to better water management and more sustainable urban water systems.

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy - Urban forests reduce the need for cooling energy by providing shade, lowering temperatures, and mitigating the heat island effect, making energy use more efficient in cities.

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth - The initiative creates local job opportunities in tree planting, maintenance, and sustainability projects, supporting economic development and promoting decent work in urban areas.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - By integrating nature into urban planning, Light & Wonder promotes innovative approaches to building resilient, sustainable, and green infrastructure that enhances the urban environment.

•  SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities - The initiative promotes inclusivity by engaging employees from diverse backgrounds and fostering equal participation in environmental conservation. By creating green spaces in urban areas, the project ensures that marginalized communities also benefit from improved air quality, mental well-being, and recreational opportunities. Additionally, it supports equitable access to environmental resources, reinforcing sustainability as a shared responsibility.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities - The initiative contributes to the creation of sustainable and resilient cities by increasing green cover and improving the quality of life for residents in urban areas.

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production - Light & Wonder’s sustainable practices in urban forestry reflect a commitment to responsible consumption, efficient resource use, and promoting eco-friendly environmental practices.

• SDG 13: Climate Action - The urban forestry initiative supports climate action by sequestering carbon, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and creating green spaces that help mitigate the effects of climate change.

• SDG 15: Life on Land - By planting trees, the initiative enhances biodiversity, providing habitats for wildlife, and supporting the protection and restoration of urban ecosystems. 

• SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) - The initiative fosters community-led governance and inclusive decision-making, ensuring stakeholder transparency and collaboration. This approach strengthens local institutions and supports peaceful, sustainable urban development.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - The project fosters collaboration with local communities, environmental organizations, and partners like Grow Billion Trees, strengthening partnerships that promote sustainable urban development and environmental stewardship.

ESG Achieved through Urban Forestry:

• Environmental Impact: Light & Wonder’s urban forestry initiative significantly enhances environmental sustainability. By planting diverse tree species, the company boosts biodiversity, creates habitats for wildlife, and supports local ecosystems. The trees act as carbon sinks, reducing CO2 levels and mitigating climate change. Additionally, the initiative improves urban climate resilience by regulating temperatures, reducing the heat island effect, and enhancing water retention, ensuring long-term ecological health.

• Social Impact: Light & Wonder’s urban forestry initiative fosters community engagement and well-being by encouraging local participation in tree planting and environmental awareness. The green spaces created improve air quality, promote physical activity, and enhance public health. The project generates job opportunities in tree planting and maintenance while promoting social equity by ensuring access to green spaces for all, including marginalized groups. These efforts build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable community.

• Governance Impact: Light & Wonder demonstrates strong leadership and commitment to sustainability through its urban forestry initiative. The company ensures transparency and accountability by effectively communicating project plans and outcomes to stakeholders. By collaborating with environmental organizations and local communities, it amplifies the impact of its efforts. This approach aligns with best governance practices, achieving environmental and social goals while promoting long-term sustainable growth.

Building Communities

One of the most impactful outcomes of Light & Wonder’s urban forestry initiative was the sense of unity and collaboration it cultivated. By involving employees, local communities, and volunteers, the project became a collective mission to create sustainable urban green spaces, fostering a shared commitment to a greener future.

Empowering Communities: Participants became active contributors, gaining knowledge about urban forestry practices and taking ownership of the initiative. This empowerment strengthened their connection to the environment and reinforced their role as environmental stewards.

Fostering Partnerships: The project brought together diverse stakeholders, including Light & Wonder, Grow Billion Trees, and local communities, highlighting the value of collaboration in achieving environmental and social goals.

Creating a Ripple Effect: As communities experienced the benefits of urban forestry, their enthusiasm inspired others to adopt similar practices, amplifying the initiative's positive impact across the region.

Commitment 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.

Acknowledgment

We at Grow Billion Trees extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of our urban forestry initiative in Chennai. This project, which seamlessly combines environmental sustainability with employee engagement, would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated employees, local authorities, and partners. Their collective efforts in planting and nurturing 233 native trees are helping to create a greener, healthier, and more resilient urban ecosystem. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to fostering biodiversity, improving air quality, and promoting a sustainable future.

To Light & Wonder: We sincerely thank Light & Wonder for your dedication to sustainability and employee engagement. Your visionary approach to urban forestry has laid the foundation for a greener, more resilient future in Chennai. Through your efforts, 233 native trees have been planted, contributing to biodiversity conservation, air quality enhancement, and long-term ecological benefits. Together, we have created a legacy that will positively impact urban communities and contribute to a sustainable tomorrow.

To Our Partners and Volunteers: Your expertise, dedication, and passion for environmental sustainability have been instrumental in the success of Light & Wonder’s urban forestry initiative. Through your collaborative efforts, we have taken meaningful steps towards creating greener urban spaces and enhancing biodiversity in Chennai. Your contributions not only support ecological restoration but also promote community engagement and environmental awareness. Together, we are shaping a more sustainable future, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in building a greener, healthier world for generations to come.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment!

Closing Remarks

We are proud to have embarked on Light & Wonder’s journey of environmental sustainability through our urban forestry initiative in Chennai. This project has not only enhanced urban greenery but has also fostered a sense of community engagement and environmental stewardship. It highlights the power of collaboration, where every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to a healthier, more sustainable future. As we look ahead to the continued success of this initiative, we are committed to expanding our efforts and inspiring others to join us in creating lasting positive change. Together, we are laying the foundation for a world where urban sustainability, community empowerment, and responsible practices thrive. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this meaningful endeavor. Let’s continue working together to make a difference, for today and future generations.