Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.: CSR for a Greener Future

Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd., the primary Indian operational and innovation hub supporting Western Union's global money transfer and digital Read more

× Large View

Project Update 3

Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image

Project Update 2

Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image

Project Update 1

Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image

Digital Forest

Forest with 2,500 Trees planned

Want to plant your tree now?

Plant a Tree @ 299

Trees Planted

Arboreal Icons

Arboreal Icons
Bakayan Neem Tree

Bakayan Neem Tree
Behada Tree

Behada Tree
Golden Duranta Tree

Golden Duranta Tree
Harsingar Tree

Harsingar Tree
Indian Mahogany Tree

Indian Mahogany Tree
Indian Red Sandalwood Tree

Indian Red Sandalwood Tree
Neem Tree

Neem Tree
Peepal Tree

Peepal Tree
Semal Tree

Semal Tree
Shisham Tree

Shisham Tree
The Kanchan Tree

The Kanchan Tree

Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.: CSR for a Greener Future

Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd., the primary Indian operational and innovation hub supporting Western Union's global money transfer and digital financial services ecosystem, is extending its commitment to sustainability through a meaningful Miyawaki Forest initiative. As part of its CSR Green Initiative, the company is creating a dense native forest using the Miyawaki method, which enables rapid forest growth, enhances biodiversity, and transforms underutilized land into thriving green ecosystems. This initiative reflects Western Union's dedication to creating a lasting environmental impact while advancing its long-term sustainability goals.

The Miyawaki Forest initiative helps combat climate change by capturing carbon, improving air quality, restoring soil health, increasing groundwater retention, and providing a natural habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. With its fast-growing, self-sustaining ecosystem, the initiative also promotes ecological resilience and inspires community participation in environmental conservation. Through this initiative, Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. demonstrates that innovation, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship can come together to build healthier, greener, and more sustainable communities for generations to come.

 

Project Planning & Execution

No of Trees: 2500

Plantation Location: Golegaon Village, Pune, Maharashtra – 410502

Plantation Duration: 31st July 2026 onwards

Names of Species: Shisham, Peepal, Kamini, Mohagani, Kunda, Parijat, Bor, Karvand, Limbu, Badam (Indian Almond), Raktchandan, Neem, Kanchan, Golden Duranta, Buch (Baheda/Buch Tree), Amaltas, Akashmani, Khirani (Khirni), Semal, Kusum

Species Selection & Its Benefits

The species selected for Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.’s plantation initiative were carefully chosen to suit the local ecosystem and support biodiversity. A diverse mix of 20 native and regionally suitable species was planted, covering canopy, sub-canopy, shrub and ground-level vegetation to create a healthy, multi-layered green space.

Canopy Trees such as Shisham, Peepal, Mohagani, Indian Almond, Raktchandan, Neem, Amaltas, Akashmani, Semal, Kusum and Buch form the taller layer, providing shade, improving air quality, sequestering carbon and creating habitats for birds and insects. Fruit- and flower-bearing species also add ecological and community value.

Sub-Canopy & Fruit Trees such as Bor, Karvand, Limbu, Khirani and Kanchan add diversity to the middle layer while providing fruits, flowers and shelter for pollinators and wildlife. These species also contribute to soil health and strengthen the overall resilience of the plantation.

Shrubs & Ornamental Species such as Kamini, Kunda, Parijat and Golden Duranta enrich the lower layers, helping improve soil cover, moisture retention and habitat availability while adding aesthetic value to the landscape.

Together, these carefully selected species create a diverse, resilient and ecologically balanced plantation, supporting carbon sequestration, biodiversity, soil health and a greener environment in line with Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Beneficiaries Details

  • Target Population: Stakeholders and local community members of Pune

  • 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

Miyawaki Technique: The Miyawaki technique is a dense afforestation method that promotes rapid green cover using native plant species. It consists of rapidly growing vegetation that develops 10 times faster and becomes 30 times denser than conventional plantations. By closely planting a diverse mix of flora, it creates a self-sustaining ecosystem that requires minimal maintenance. This method enhances biodiversity, improves air quality, absorbs carbon dioxide, and restores degraded land. Due to its high-density plantation style, it is especially effective in urban areas, offering environmental benefits such as temperature regulation, noise reduction, and soil enrichment.

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.

Advantages of the Miyawaki Technique

  • Faster Growth: Vegetation grows up to 10 times faster than conventional methods due to high-density planting, soil conditioning, and native species selection. It reaches maturity in 20-30 years instead of over a century, making it highly effective for ecological restoration.

  • Biodiversity Enhancement: The technique encourages a diverse mix of native species, supporting wildlife such as birds, insects, and small mammals, contributing to habitat restoration and ecosystem resilience.

  • Sustainability: After the initial 3 years, these green spaces become self-sustaining, requiring minimal intervention. Natural mulch helps retain moisture and suppresses weed growth, making maintenance cost-effective.

  • Soil Health Improvement: Organic matter decomposition enhances soil fertility, while root systems aerate the ground, improving water retention and preventing erosion, especially in degraded or sloped areas.

  • Microclimate Regulation: The dense vegetation reduces heat absorption, increases moisture release, and combats the urban heat island effect, improving air quality and energy efficiency in nearby structures.

  • Space Efficiency: This method allows for high-density planting in small areas, making it ideal for urban spaces, schools, and community parks, even on degraded land.

  • Ecosystem Restoration: By using native species, these forests seamlessly reintegrate with local ecosystems, supporting pollinators and maintaining ecological balance.

  • Low Water Consumption: Once established, the dense planting and bio mulch help retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering, making it a sustainable solution even in water-scarce regions.

Trees Planted

Total Trees Planted: 2500
Total Species Planted: 20
Layer 1 11 species
Layer 2 5 species
Layer 3 4 species

 

Layer Category SN Common Name Scientific Name Quantity
Canopy Trees
 1 Sisam Dalbergia sissoo 16
2 Pipal Ficus religiosa 10
3 Mohagani Swietenia mahagoni 500
4 Badam (Indian Almond) Terminalia catappa 20
5 Raktchandan Pterocarpus santalinus 20
6 Limb (Neem) Azadirachta indica 260
7 Buch (Baheda) Terminalia bellirica 10
8 Akashmani Acacia auriculiformis 20
9 Khirani (Khirni) Manilkara hexandra 60
10 Semal Bombax ceiba 96
11 Kusum Schleichera oleosa 161
Sub Trees
 12 Parijat Nyctanthes arbor-tristis 75
13 Bor Ziziphus mauritiana 15
14 Limbu Citrus limon 550
15 Kanchan Bauhinia variegata 20
16 Amaltas Cassia fistula 110
Shrubs
 17 Kamin (Kamini) Murraya paniculata 45
18 Kunda Jasminum multiflorum 2
19 Karvand Carissa carandas 180
20 Golden Duranta Duranta erecta 'Golden' 330

Activities during Tree Plantation

As part of its CSR Green Initiative, Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. conducted a tree plantation drive at Z. P. School, Golegaon, Pune, Maharashtra. The initiative focused on creating a greener environment while generating long-term environmental and social benefits for the local community. The plantation aimed to enhance biodiversity, improve air and water quality, support climate action, and encourage greater awareness of environmental responsibility.

Before the plantation, the site was prepared with pre-dug pits, ensuring suitable conditions for planting the saplings. Native and regionally suitable species were carefully positioned to support healthy growth, while organic manure was added to enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients to the young plants.

The plantation activity saw enthusiastic participation, with saplings being planted with care and attention. The hands-on experience encouraged participants to understand the importance of trees, sustainable practices, and protecting natural ecosystems. The activity also helped strengthen the connection between environmental conservation and community well-being.

Through this initiative, Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by turning CSR efforts into meaningful environmental action. The newly planted trees represent a lasting contribution towards combating climate change, enhancing local ecosystems, and building a healthier and greener future for the community.

 

Conclusion Elements

Direct Impact

Parameters Values References
No. of Trees Planted 2,500
Green Cover (Acres) 0.21
Carbon Sequestration Potential (KG) 20 Small to medium-sized trees can sequester around 10–48 kilograms (22–106 pounds) of CO₂ annually.

https://growbilliontrees.com/blogs/knowledge/how-much-co2-can-one-tree-absorb
Carbon Sequestration by 2500 mature trees ( Tons/year) 50 No. of Trees x Carbon Sequestration by 1 mature trees per year
Carbon Credit Equivalent 50 One carbon credit is equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide or the equivalent amount of another greenhouse gas.
Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen (Tons/Year) 1.8 https://www.iea.org/countries/india/emissions
Offsets Annual Carbon Footprint of (Adults) 28 Carbon offset by 2500 mature trees per year / Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen per year

*This impact analysis is forward-looking (A Miyawaki Forest project matures in 2-3 years)

Indirect Impact

Community Impact

  • Environmental Awareness: Involving local communities in the plantation drive fosters greater awareness about environmental conservation and encourages sustainable practices in daily life.

  • Employee Morale & Engagement: The initiative instilled a sense of pride, ownership, and teamwork, strengthening employees' connection to the company’s sustainability goals and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

  • Inspiration for Change: By showcasing the rapid, dense growth of Miyawaki forests, this project has inspired organizations, institutions, and local communities to adopt this innovative afforestation method, thereby encouraging widespread urban greening and ecological restoration.

  • Cultural Shift: The initiative cultivated a long-term sustainability mindset, encouraging participants to become advocates for green practices in both their personal and professional lives.

  • Enhanced Community Collaboration: Strengthened ties between corporate stakeholders, local authorities, and environmental groups, creating a collaborative approach to sustainability.

Environmental Impact

  • Biodiversity Conservation - By introducing native plant species, the project supports local wildlife, including birds, insects, and pollinators, thereby fostering a healthier, more diverse ecosystem.

  • Carbon Sequestration – The planted trees act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and helping mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Air Purification – Trees filter pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, improving air quality and promoting a healthier environment.

  • Microclimate Regulation – The plantation reduces the urban heat island effect, cooling the surrounding area and helping regulate temperatures, making urban environments more comfortable.

  • Water Conservation - The bio-mulch created by the plantation helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering and promoting more efficient water use across the ecosystem.

  • Soil Health Improvement – The plantation enriches soil fertility by adding organic matter, improving soil structure, and supporting surrounding vegetation.

  • Erosion Prevention – Tree roots stabilize the soil, preventing erosion from wind and water and helping protect infrastructure, roads, and green spaces.

  • Noise Reduction – Green spaces act as natural sound barriers, reducing noise pollution and creating a quieter, more peaceful environment.

 

Achievements

SDG Goals Achieved Through Miyawaki Plantation

  • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being): Tree plantations and Miyawaki forests improve air quality and provide natural spaces that support physical and mental well-being. Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd..’s efforts enhance public health by creating greener, healthier environments for communities, contributing to overall well-being.

  • SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Tree plantations play a vital role in water conservation by improving groundwater recharge, reducing surface runoff, and naturally filtering water. These initiatives support sustainable water management, helping ensure cleaner, healthier water systems in rural and semi-urban areas.

  • SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): The farmer engagement program, where communities actively participate in tree planting, fosters a culture of sustainability. This initiative aligns with Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd..’s commitment to environmental responsibility, promotes sustainable livelihoods, and contributes to economic growth in the local community.

  • SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): The plantation initiatives employ innovative techniques, including Miyawaki forests, and the selection of native species. These practices enhance land-use efficiency and ecological infrastructure, fostering eco-friendly innovations in environmental management.

  • SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): The initiatives promote inclusivity by involving diverse stakeholders, including small-scale and marginalized farmers, in the implementation and maintenance of plantations. This approach ensures equitable benefits and opportunities, reducing social and economic disparities.

  • SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Through the Miyawaki initiative, Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. helps build more resilient and sustainable communities. The trees mitigate air pollution, reduce local heat island effects, and improve living conditions, fostering a more sustainable environment.

  • SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd..'s tree-planting efforts emphasize sustainable resource management. By planting native and fruit-bearing trees, the company promotes environmental responsibility, ensuring that production and land-use practices align with global sustainability standards.

  • SDG 13 (Climate Action): By planting trees across project sites, Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. directly addresses climate change. The trees sequester carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the company’s carbon footprint and contributing to broader climate action efforts.

  • SDG 15 (Life on Land): Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.'s initiatives protect and restore ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and support sustainable land use. These efforts conserve terrestrial ecosystems and improve the health of natural habitats in rural areas.

  • SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): The initiative fosters community-led governance and inclusive decision-making, ensuring transparency and collaboration among stakeholders. This approach strengthens local institutions and supports sustainable development in the project areas.

  • SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Through strategic collaboration with Grow Billion Trees, Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. has successfully implemented the Miyawaki tree plantation initiative, promoting sustainable land-use practices that benefit both local communities and the environment. Grow Billion Trees provided expertise and resources to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives. This partnership has empowered communities to take ownership of plantations, promoting sustainable practices that enhance ecological health and social well-being while advancing environmental goals.

ESG Achieved through Miyawaki Plantation

  • Environmental Impact: Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. is actively contributing to climate change mitigation through its Miyawaki tree plantation initiative. The Miyawaki forest developed at Pune enhances biodiversity, restores degraded land, and improves soil health. By planting dense clusters of native trees, the initiative strengthens local ecosystems, promotes groundwater recharge, and improves air quality. Each tree acts as a natural carbon sink, sequestering CO₂ and helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This afforestation effort aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals, ensuring long-term ecological restoration and environmental resilience in the region.

  • Social Impact: Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. places strong emphasis on community participation and employee engagement in its ESG-driven initiatives. Local community members play a key role in maintaining the plantation, creating employment opportunities, and fostering a sense of ownership. The initiative promotes social well-being by transforming barren land into green, healthy spaces that enhance mental well-being, reduce heat stress, and improve quality of life. Through awareness programs and active involvement, the project fosters a culture of environmental responsibility, strengthening bonds among the company, employees, and the local community.

  • Governance Impact: Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. upholds transparency, accountability, and ethical governance in its tree plantation activities. Partnering with Grow Billion Trees, the initiative ensures data-driven monitoring through geo-tagged plantations, real-time tracking, and progress updates. Regular internal audits and annual reports evaluate the project’s environmental, social, and economic outcomes, ensuring responsible implementation and alignment with the company’s ESG commitments. This governance framework reinforces Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.'s dedication to sustainable growth, environmental leadership, and community development.

Building Communities

One of the most profound impacts of Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.'s Miyawaki plantation initiative has been the spirit of unity and collaboration it fostered. By actively engaging employees, local communities, and volunteers, the project became more than a tree-planting drive—it evolved into a shared mission to create resilient, sustainable green spaces. This collective effort has strengthened environmental consciousness and encouraged long-term stewardship of natural resources.

  • Empowering Communities: This initiative engages employees and stakeholders in planting and maintenance. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership over the green spaces, empowering individuals to take responsibility for their environment. As participants contribute to the growth of their community’s green cover, they become more connected to their surroundings, building pride and a shared commitment to sustainability.

  • Fostering Meaningful Partnerships: The initiative brought together key stakeholders, including Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd., Grow Billion Trees, and local communities, demonstrating the power of collaboration in achieving lasting environmental and social change. These partnerships strengthened the collective commitment to sustainability, ensuring that afforestation efforts continue to thrive in the long run.

  • Inspiring a Ripple Effect: As the benefits of the Miyawaki plantation became evident- improved air quality, enhanced biodiversity, and increased community engagement- its impact extended beyond the immediate planting site. Local institutions, schools, and organizations have been inspired to replicate similar initiatives, amplifying the project's reach and promoting widespread urban greening.

This initiative stands as a testament to Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.'s philosophy of building communities, proving that true environmental sustainability is not just about planting trees, but about nurturing awareness, fostering collaboration, and creating a shared vision for a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future.

 

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 issues like 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 everyone who contributed to the success of the Miyawaki tree Plantation Initiative by Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.. This initiative, undertaken across Pune, reflects a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being. Its success would not have been possible without the support of local authorities, implementation partners, volunteers, and community members. Together, their collective efforts in planting and nurturing trees are helping create greener urban spaces, enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and build a more sustainable future.

To Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.: We sincerely thank you for your steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Your vision of creating a greener future through this Miyawaki tree plantation initiative has resulted in the plantation of 2500 trees, contributing to climate resilience, ecological restoration, and healthier communities. Together, we have created a lasting environmental legacy that will continue to benefit future generations and reinforce your commitment to sustainable development.

To Our Ground Partners and Volunteers: Your dedication, expertise, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in the successful implementation of Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.'s Miyawaki Tree Plantation Initiative. From site preparation and plantation to ongoing care and maintenance, your contributions have ensured the healthy growth of every tree planted. Through your collaborative efforts, we are restoring green cover, strengthening local ecosystems, and inspiring communities to embrace environmental stewardship. We look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership in creating a greener, healthier, and more sustainable tomorrow.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment.

 

Closing Remarks

We are proud to have partnered with Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd. in advancing environmental sustainability through this Miyawaki Tree Plantation Initiative in Pune. This initiative reflects Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd.'s commitment to creating a greener future by increasing green cover, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering healthier urban ecosystems. Beyond the environmental benefits, the project has strengthened community participation and demonstrated how collective action can create meaningful, lasting change.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to nurturing these trees and expanding our shared efforts to inspire greater environmental stewardship. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where sustainability, ecological resilience, and community well-being continue to thrive.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Western Union Services India Pvt. Ltd., our implementation partners, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the success of this initiative. Let us continue working together to create greener landscapes, healthier communities, and a more sustainable tomorrow for generations to come.

Trees for Corporates - Achieve Net Zero Targets Through Strategic Tree Planting

1 5

Trending Tree Plantations - Most Popular Environmental Programs

1 5

Want to plant your tree now?

Plant a Tree @ 299

Most Popular Tree Plantations - Top Choices for Environmental Impact

1 5