URBAN BIODIVERSITY
Preserving key habitats and strengthening a green corridor of open spaces
As green cover across cities continues to shrink, we are increasing biodiverse green spaces that restore the environmental ecosystem
Our Solution
Our pilot projects
These parks are being redesigned using ecological principles, to create an urban oasis. It acts as a carbon sink, mitigating the urban heat island effect and reducing air pollution. Moreover, the increased biodiversity enhances the environment and provides valuable opportunities for experiential learning.
Project year: April 2024
Sq.ft: 1.2 acre plot
Location: Located between the Priyadarshini Park and the Hanging Gardens of Malabar, the Shantivan allows for a space of quiet learning, education and interaction.
- Hidden Oasis: Features enchanting moss-covered paths and repurposed steps transformed into artificial streams and mini waterfalls, creating a charming escape.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Boasts over 86 plant species and 50+ fauna species, showcasing a vibrant ecosystem within the city.
After
Before
Introduction
The Udaan biodiversity park in Pune, a former 1.5-acre dumping ground, is a testament to our conservation efforts. Through our intervention, the land now thrives with diverse species, including rare and medicinal plants, native butterflies, birds, and animals.
Plants
With over 300 plant species, visitors and students alike frequent this space to learn about various herbal species and native plants. The Shiv Suman was considered as one of the 12 most threatened species in the world, but our conservation efforts have brought it back from the brink of extinction.
Birds and Animals
The Park hosts many habitats (including the nearby stream), food and secure sites for nesting. Thus, it is a small haven for birds both resident and migratory. Total 28 species of birds were recorded in 2023-24. A few other animal groups also form important links to the food chain.
Insects and Butterflies
Intensive research at the garden led to recording a plethora of wonderful insects – 45 species (excluding butterflies and odonates) belonging to 8 different insect orders. These included different types of beetles, flies, bugs, bees, wasps, ants, grasshoppers to name a few. It also hosts the State Butterfly of Maharashtra – Blue Mormon.
Project year: April 2024
Sq.ft: 3500+ sq.m.
Location: Located along the edge of the Willingdon sports club, a densely covered strip of land edges the road.
- Botanical Treasure Trove: It boasts 49 recorded tree species, with 24 native varieties.
- Heritage Trees: It houses 11 grand old trees, including 10 Raintrees and a Banyan, all classified as heritage trees.
- Diverse Flora: The park showcases a variety of native and non-native trees like Kuchala, Java Olive, Mahogany, Rose Apple, and Ankol.
- Rich Fauna: A survey identified 40 fauna species, including 14 butterfly species, birds like the Alexandrine Parakeet, and mammals like the Five-striped Palm Squirrel.
Project year: 2023
Sq.ft: 98 + acres
Location: Our tree-planting initiative focuses on restoring biodiversity in targeted regions by planting a diverse mix of native species. These can include medicinal plants, fruit trees, sources of non-timber forest products (NTFPs), and timber trees. In fiscal year 2023-24, we planted a significant milestone of 1 lakh (100,000) saplings across Ramtek in Nagpur, and Bastar in Chhattisgarh. This is just the start – we’re excited to continue our tree-planting journey across India and be a part of the solution!