Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is one of the most celebrated franchises in the Indian Premier League, renowned for its passionate fan base, competitive spirit, and deep connection with the cultural heartbeat of Kolkata. Co-owned by Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, and Jay Mehta, KKR has earned multiple IPL championships while inspiring millions through its commitment to excellence both on and off the field. Beyond cricket, the franchise actively supports initiatives that create meaningful social and environmental impact, encouraging fans and communities to contribute towards a more sustainable future.

Through its Runs to Roots commitment, KKR has launched a unique conventional tree plantation initiative that transforms on-field achievements into environmental action. For every run scored by the team during the IPL season, KKR has pledged to plant 10 trees, creating a direct link between sporting success and ecological restoration. In partnership with Grow Billion Trees, the initiative begins with the plantation of native tree species at Subhas Sarobar, one of Kolkata's important urban water bodies and green spaces.

The plantation drive is designed to deliver long-term environmental benefits for the city. The newly planted trees will help stabilise the lake's banks, reduce soil erosion, improve local air quality, and create valuable habitats for birds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. By strengthening the ecological health of the lake ecosystem, the initiative contributes to enhancing biodiversity while supporting urban climate resilience.

More than a plantation effort, Runs to Roots symbolizes the power of collective action. Every run scored by KKR translates into a tangible environmental contribution, allowing fans to celebrate not only cricketing milestones but also the creation of a greener Kolkata. Through this initiative, KKR demonstrates how sport can inspire positive change, turning every boundary, partnership, and victory into lasting roots that will benefit the city and its communities for generations to come.

Project Planning & Execution

No. of Trees: 2,000 Trees

Plantation Location: Subhas Sarobar Lake, Beleghata, Kolkata, West Bengal 700010

Plantation Date: 27th June, 2026

Beneficiaries Details

• Target Population: Employees, stakeholders, and local community members in Kolkata.

• Age Group: All age groups, with a primary focus on adults and senior citizens

• Gender: Inclusive of all genders

• Social & Economic Status: Open to individuals from all social and economic backgrounds, with an emphasis on community participation

Planting Methodology and Its Advantages

Conventional Tree Plantation: 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.

Conclusion Elements

Indirect Impact

Community Impact

• Improved Public Health: By improving air quality and reducing local heat stress, 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 conventional tree plantations 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 conventional tree plantation, the project has encouraged other organisations 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 Kolkata Knight Riders' conventional tree plantation 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 stabilise the soil in plantation 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 the surrounding area.

• Water Cycle Regulation: The tree plantation 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 environment.

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

Achievements

SDG Goals Achieved through Tree Plantation

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Kolkata Knight Riders' tree plantation project enhances air quality and creates green spaces that promote physical and mental well-being, reducing stress and fostering a healthier lifestyle.

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Trees play a crucial role in water conservation by enhancing groundwater recharge, reducing surface runoff, and improving overall water retention. Kolkata Knight Riders' initiative supports sustainable water systems through afforestation and green infrastructure.

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy –  By mitigating the local heat stress, Kolkata Knight Riders' tree plantation efforts help lower ambient temperatures and reduce reliance on artificial cooling. The shade provided by trees enhances energy efficiency and promotes a more sustainable local climate.

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The initiative generates employment opportunities in tree planting, maintenance, and ecological restoration, contributing to local economic development and green job creation.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Kolkata Knight Rider integrates sustainable plantation practices into infrastructure planning, promoting green innovation and enhancing climate resilience.

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Kolkata Knight Rider is fostering inclusivity by involving people from all walks of life in tree plantation activities. Through their efforts to create accessible green spaces, they champion environmental equity, ensuring that everyone, especially those from underrepresented or marginalised communities, can enjoy cleaner air, better mental health, and peaceful places to reconnect with nature.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Kolkata Knight Rider's commitment to afforestation contributes to creating more sustainable and resilient cities by increasing green cover, improving air quality, and enhancing local biodiversity.

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Kolkata Knight Riders' commitment to sustainability is reflected in their responsible approach to tree plantation practices, focusing on resource efficiency and long-term environmental benefits.

• SDG 13: Climate Action – The plantation initiative actively supports climate action by sequestering carbon, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating climate change effects through the expansion of green spaces.

• SDG 15: Life on Land – By restoring green spaces with native and fruit-bearing trees, the initiative strengthens biodiversity, supports wildlife, and contributes to a thriving ecosystem.

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions –  By fostering inclusive decision-making and community-led governance, Kolkata Knight Rider strengthens local environmental stewardship, ensuring transparency and collaboration for sustainable development.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The initiative thrives on collaboration with local communities, environmental organisations, and partners such as Grow Billion Trees. Kolkata Knight Rider strengthens environmental partnerships to drive impactful sustainability and afforestation efforts.

ESG Achieved through Tree Plantation

• Environmental Impact: Kolkata Knight Riders' conventional tree plantation initiative significantly enhances environmental sustainability. By planting diverse tree species, the company boosts biodiversity, creates habitats for wildlife, and supports local ecosystems. Trees act as carbon sinks, reducing CO2 levels and mitigating climate change. Additionally, the initiative improves local climate resilience by regulating temperatures, reducing the heat island effect, and enhancing water retention, ensuring long-term ecological health for future generations.

• Social Impact: Kolkata Knight Riders' conventional tree plantation 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 marginalised groups. These efforts build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable community.

• Governance Impact: Kolkata Knight Riders demonstrates strong leadership and commitment to sustainability through its conventional tree plantation initiative. The company ensures transparency and accountability by effectively communicating project plans and outcomes to stakeholders. By collaborating with environmental organisations 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 Kolkata Knight Riders’ conventional tree plantation initiative was the sense of unity and collaboration it cultivated. By involving employees, stakeholders, local communities, and volunteers, the project became a collective mission to create sustainable green spaces, fostering a shared commitment to a greener future.

• Empowering Communities: Participants became active contributors, gaining knowledge about tree plantation 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 Kolkata Knight Riders, Grow Billion Trees, and local communities, highlighting the value of collaboration in achieving long-term environmental and social goals.

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

This initiative demonstrates that environmental sustainability thrives when rooted in collective effort. It’s not just about planting trees; it’s about planting hope, collaboration, and a shared vision for a healthier and greener future.

Commitment by Grow Billion Trees

• Ensuring Tree Survivability: Grow Billion Trees (GBT) prioritizes the plantation of native and climate-resilient species, supported by continuous monitoring and soil health improvement through the use of organic manure and fertilizers. These practices ensure higher survival rates and long-term sustainable growth, benefiting both communities and the surrounding ecosystem.

• Transparency & Accountability: GBT maintains transparency by providing regular updates and detailed reports on plantation progress, survival status, and environmental benefits. Tools such as geo-fencing, geo-tagged monitoring, and periodic site inspections help ensure accountability and effective implementation.

• Sustainable Plantation Efforts: GBT executes plantation projects that balance environmental, social, and economic goals. By addressing challenges such as rising temperature levels and land degradation, these initiatives promote ecological restoration, community well-being, and long-term climate resilience.

• Enhancing Ecosystem Health: Through careful species selection and diverse plantation models, GBT supports biodiversity conservation and strengthens ecosystem resilience. These efforts create habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife while improving overall environmental stability.

• Long-Term Impact: GBT’s long-term approach focuses on mitigating climate change, improving green cover, supporting sustainable development, and reducing carbon footprints. Their initiatives contribute significantly to building resilient landscapes and promoting a healthier environment for future generation. 

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 the tree plantation initiative has laid the foundation for a greener and more resilient future in Kolkata. Through your efforts, 2000 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.