Tree Planting CSR Projects in India 2026: Building a Sustainable Future

Marpu Foundation
21 hours ago
5 min read

In an era where climate change poses an existential threat to our planet, India stands at the forefront of vulnerability with rising temperatures, erratic monsoons, and degrading ecosystems affecting millions. Yet, amidst these challenges lies a powerful, proven solution: tree planting. As we approach 2026, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives focused on large-scale afforestation and reforestation offer companies a meaningful opportunity to contribute to environmental restoration while aligning with national and global sustainability goals. Through strategic tree planting CSR projects in India 2026, organisations can drive tangible impact, from carbon sequestration to biodiversity enhancement.Tree Plantation CSR Projects

The Marpu Foundation has emerged as a trusted leader in executing high-impact tree plantation drives across the country, having successfully planted over one million native trees in more than 23 states. This article explores the significance of tree planting as a CSR priority, optimal implementation strategies, project types, and how businesses and individuals can participate effectively.

The Urgency of Tree Planting in India(Tree Plantation CSR Projects)

India is home to 1.4 billion people and faces severe environmental pressures, including deforestation, air pollution, and soil erosion. According to recent reports, the country has lost significant forest cover over decades, exacerbating floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Trees play a critical role in mitigating these issues by absorbing carbon dioxide, improving air quality, stabilising soil, and supporting wildlife.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, eligible companies in India are mandated to allocate 2% of their average net profits towards CSR activities. Environmental sustainability, particularly under Schedule VII, includes ecological balance and conservation of natural resources. Tree planting CSR projects in India 2026 align perfectly with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Corporates increasingly recognise that well-executed plantation initiatives deliver long-term benefits, including enhanced brand reputation, employee engagement, and compliance with environmental regulations.

Why Tree Planting Remains a Top CSR Choice for 2026?

Tree plantation stands out among CSR options due to its direct, measurable impact. A single mature tree can absorb approximately 22 kg of CO2 annually, while collectively, large-scale projects contribute to cooling urban heat islands, replenishing groundwater, and fostering biodiversity.

In 2026, with India's pledge under the Paris Agreement and national targets for increasing forest cover to 33%, tree planting CSR projects offer companies a strategic way to contribute. These initiatives provide visibility through employee participation, geo-tagged monitoring, and impact reports ensuring transparency and accountability.

Organisations like the Marpu Foundation specialise in designing customised projects that maximise survival rates and ecological value, making them ideal partners for corporates seeking reliable execution.

Best Seasons for Successful Tree Plantation in India

Timing is crucial for the success of any tree plantation drive. India's diverse climate zones influence optimal planting periods, but general guidelines apply nationwide.

Peak summer months March to May experience extreme heat and water scarcity, making them unsuitable for planting. High temperatures stress young saplings, leading to low survival rates without intensive irrigation.

The most favourable period is the monsoon season, typically from June to September. Abundant rainfall provides natural watering, allowing roots to establish firmly. In many regions, July and August align with Van Mahotsav, India's national tree planting week, creating additional momentum.

Pre-monsoon preparation (February to May): Site selection, soil preparation, and sapling procurement.
Monsoon planting (June to September): Primary window for most of India, especially northern and central regions.
Post-monsoon (October to November): Suitable in areas with extended rains or reliable irrigation.
Winter (December to February): Feasible in southern states or with protected nurseries.

Experienced organisations like Marpu Foundation plan projects around these cycles, incorporating pit digging in advance and post-planting maintenance for at least two years to ensure 90%+ survival rates.

Types of Tree Planting CSR Projects in India

CSR-funded tree plantation projects can be tailored to specific objectives and locations. The following are proven models widely implemented in India:

1. Avenue and Roadside Plantation

Planting along highways, rural roads, and urban avenues creates green corridors that reduce dust pollution and provide shade. These projects are highly visible and benefit local communities directly.

2. Miyawaki Forests

This Japanese method creates dense, native forests in small urban spaces. Using 3-4 plants per square metre with diverse species, Miyawaki forests grow 10 times faster and become maintenance-free after three years. Ideal for corporate campuses, schools, and degraded urban lands.

3. Urban Greening Initiatives

Focused on cities, these projects involve planting in parks, residential societies, and institutional grounds to combat urban heat islands and improve air quality. They often include community involvement for sustained care.

4. Restoration of Degraded Lands

Targeting dumping yards, mined areas, or barren lands, these projects restore ecosystems by planting native species. Marpu Foundation has successfully transformed dumping yards into biodiverse landscapes.

5. Rural and Community-Led Afforestation

Involving local farmers and villages, these initiatives plant fruit-bearing and medicinal trees, providing economic benefits alongside environmental restoration.

Each project type can be scaled based on CSR budgets, from a few thousand saplings to lakhs.

The Importance of Native Tree Species

Successful long-term plantation depends on selecting native species adapted to local soil, climate, and ecology. Native trees require less water, resist pests naturally, and support indigenous wildlife.

Recommended native species for CSR projects in India include:

Neem (Azadirachta indica) — Medicinal properties, air purification, drought-resistant.
Peepal (Ficus religiosa) — Sacred, high oxygen production, supports biodiversity.
Banyan (Ficus benghalensis) — Extensive shade, long lifespan, keystone species.
Jamun (Syzygium cumini) — Fruit-bearing, nectar source for birds and bees.
Mango (Mangifera indica) — Economic value, shade provider.
Teak (Tectona grandis) — Timber value in restored forests (used selectively).
Bamboo (various species) — Rapid carbon sequestration, soil stabilisation.
Indian Coral Tree (Erythrina variegata) — Nitrogen-fixing, attracts pollinators.

Marpu Foundation prioritises 100% native species in all projects, avoiding exotic or invasive varieties that can harm ecosystems.

Marpu Foundation: A Proven Leader in Tree Planting Initiatives

Marpu Foundation has established itself as a gold standard in environmental CSR execution. Key achievements include

Planting over 1 million native trees across 23+ states.
Creating 31+ Miyawaki forests.
Restoring multiple dumping yards into green, biodiverse spaces.
Completing large-scale drives with partners like Infosys and Hindustan Zinc.
Annual impacts including 150,000+ saplings in single years and comprehensive ecosystem restoration.

These projects are executed with scientific rigor site surveys, soil amendment, three-year maintenance, and digital monitoring. Corporates receive detailed reports, photographs, and geo-coordinates for complete transparency.

How Companies Can Participate in Tree Planting CSR Projects

Companies interested in tree planting CSR projects in India 2026 can follow these steps:

Define Objectives — Align with SDGs, employee engagement needs, or geographic focus.
Budget Allocation — Costs vary from ₹50-₹200 per sapling (including maintenance).
Partner Selection — Choose experienced NGOs like Marpu Foundation for end-to-end execution.
Project Design — Customise location, species, and scale.
Employee Involvement — Organise plantation events for team-building.
Monitoring and Reporting — Receive regular updates and impact certificates.

Many companies integrate these initiatives into annual CSR calendars, launching during monsoon for optimal results.

Volunteering Opportunities for Individuals

Individuals passionate about the environment can contribute by:

Joining Marpu Foundation's organised plantation drives.
Volunteering for site preparation, planting, or maintenance.
Spreading awareness in communities.
Donating towards saplings or specific projects.

Volunteers gain hands-on experience and witness direct environmental impact.

Planning Ahead for 2026: Key Considerations

For maximum success in 2026:

Begin planning in early 2026 to secure sites and saplings.
Focus on monsoon execution (June-September).
Prioritise native species and long-term maintenance.
Incorporate community ownership for sustainability.
Measure impact through survival rates, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity indicators.

Partner with Marpu Foundation

As India strides towards a greener future, tree planting CSR projects in 2026 present an unparalleled opportunity for meaningful contribution. The Marpu Foundation stands ready to guide and execute impactful initiatives tailored to your organisation's vision

Visit www.marpu.org to explore ongoing projects, view impact reports, and initiate discussions for your 2026 CSR tree plantation drive. Together, let us plant the seeds for a sustainable tomorrow one native tree at a time.

Contact Marpu Foundation today and be part of India's green transformation.