On World Environment Day 2025, coal and lignite Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) launched a nationwide campaign focused on afforestation and plastic elimination.
Events were organised across nearly 350 locations in 11 coal/lignite-bearing states as part of a mega environmental initiative. The plantation drive, titled “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” aimed to honour nature by planting thousands of saplings in mining and barren lands.
This year’s theme “One Nation, One Mission – End Plastic Pollution” was actively promoted alongside the plantation campaign. The PSUs took steps to eliminate single-use plastic from their offices and encouraged local communities to do the same.
Activities included awareness rallies, clean-up drives, and workshops promoting eco-friendly habits. School students, employees, and residents participated in large numbers, making the event a collective green effort.
Over the last six years, coal PSUs have planted more than 29 million trees, reclaiming around 13,400 hectares of mined-out land. This year, the drive incorporated advanced techniques such as the Miyawaki method, seed-ball sowing, and drone-based afforestation for faster and denser greenery.
Looking ahead, the PSUs have set a target to green 16,000 hectares in the next five years, including 2,800 hectares this year alone.
These actions align with India’s broader environmental goals, including the commitment to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2070. By reducing pollution, increasing forest cover, and restoring biodiversity, coal companies are contributing to long-term sustainability.
The anti-plastic efforts complement the plantation work by pushing for a systemic reduction in waste and encouraging behavioural change at the grassroots level.
This transformation reflects a broader shift in coal PSUs — from resource extraction to ecological restoration.
Through consistent effort, these companies are showing that industrial growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Each sapling planted and each plastic item removed is a step towards a cleaner, greener India.
