"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
23 Apr 2025
In the heart of Punjab, a quiet revolution has been unfolding over the past six years. The Roundglass Foundation's The Billion Tree Project has been transforming barren stretches of land into thriving forests, blooming with life and hope. With over 3 million native trees planted, this initiative has not only brought beauty to the landscape but also healing to the land and its people.
A Green Oasis in the Making
Imagine a Punjab where the air is cleaner, the water is more abundant, and the land is filled with life. This is the vision behind The Billion Tree Project, which has been working tirelessly to increase the state's forest cover and mitigate the effects of climate change. With a remarkable survival rate of nearly 90%, the trees planted under this initiative have flourished into thriving ecosystems, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. The success of The Billion Tree Project is a proof to the power of collective action.
Local communities, Panchayats, and the MGNREGA workforce have come together to plant and nurture these trees, creating 15,000 jobs in the process.
Celebrities like Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, and Jasmin Bhasin have also lent their support to this initiative, planting trees and spreading awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.
A Breath of Fresh Air
The impact of The Billion Tree Project goes beyond just the numbers. These trees have captured about 36,000 tons of carbon, equivalent to removing 7,609 petrol vehicles from the road! They have also recharged groundwater, improved air quality, and become natural allies in the fight against climate change.
As Vishal Chowla, Leader of the Roundglass Foundation, says,
“Trees are nature's ultimate balancing force in our increasingly fragile ecosystems. Each tree we plant functions as a living solution to multiple environmental challenges.”
The Roundglass Foundation's commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation is evident in its work. By engaging with rural communities and administration, the foundation has impacted the lives of 2.4 million people in over 2,400 villages in Punjab. Through initiatives like The Billion Tree Project, Learn Labs, and Waste Management, the foundation is working to foster sustainable living and improve the lives of children, youth, women, and the environment.
A Message of Hope
As we celebrate the success of The Billion Tree Project, we are reminded of the power of collective action and the importance of environmental conservation. We hope that this initiative will inspire others to take action and work towards creating a more sustainable future for our planet.
As Diljit Dosanjh so aptly put it, "Tree plantation is true sewa."
Let us continue to plant trees, nurture them, and protect our environment, for a greener tomorrow.
The Billion Tree Project: By the Numbers
- 3,035,519 trees planted
- 1,476 mini forests created
- 463 parks developed
- 27 fruit orchards planted
- 36,000 tons of carbon sequestered
- 15,000 jobs created under MGNREGA
This initiative is a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together to work towards a common goal. As we look to the future, we are filled with hope and optimism, knowing that together, we can create a more sustainable and beautiful world for generations to come.