EY GDS launches major environmental conservation program on World Wetlands Day, constructing floating wetlands in four prominent lakes across India.
Pune, India – February 10, 2025: EY Global Delivery Services (EY GDS) had launched a series of programs across the country on the occasion of World Wetlands Day. The initiative is part of the dedication of EY GDS to support the preservation of wetlands across India, highlighting the organization’s broader commitment toward environmental conservation.
To mark the event, around 200 EY GDS volunteers constructed 15 floating wetlands at the Pashan Lake in Pune, each measuring three feet by four feet, and planting close to 240 saplings of the Canna Indica species. The Pune event is part of a larger project undertaken by EY GDS on World Wetlands Day. Apart from Pashan Lake in Pune, the other lakes selected for this initiative include: Chacharia Lake, Kolkata, on 07 February; Ulsoor Lake, Bengaluru, Karnataka, on 14 February; and Durgam Cheruvu Lake, Hyderabad, on 14 February.
Floating wetlands enhance wetland biodiversity by promoting the growth of vegetation, which plays a key role in improving water quality, controlling shoreline erosion, and mitigating climate change. The initiative incorporates hydroponic technology for water filtration, potentially improving the overall water quality. This global observance of the event highlights the crucial role wetlands play in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
Manesh Patel, Global Operations Leader, EY GDS, said, “At EY GDS, we believe in driving meaningful change through collective action. On World Wetlands Day, our initiatives across the country showcase our commitment to environmental sustainability as our volunteers actively contribute to wetland restoration across India. By protecting these vital ecosystems, we take a step toward a greener, more sustainable future.”
Rumi Mallick Mitra, Director, Corporate Responsibility, EY GDS, said, “At EY GDS, we believe that even small actions can lead to a significant collective impact in protecting our planet. Our initiatives are designed to foster a culture of sustainability, and through our latest project, we aim to improve the ecological health of some of India’s most important water bodies.”
EY GDS has undertaken several initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint and promote sustainability. In FY24, globally, EY GDS planted 150,000 saplings as part of its sustainability program. By investing in such impactful sustainability initiatives, the organization continues to play a key role in fostering environmental stewardship and driving positive change for communities and ecosystems alike, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to environmental conservation.
About floating wetlands
Floating wetlands, artificial platforms that support aquatic plants, contribute significantly to the ecosystem. Their roots extend into the water, forming dense networks that enhance nutrient absorption and provide habitats for various aquatic species. These wetlands help manage stormwater runoff, treat wastewater, and filter industrial contaminants, thereby improving overall water quality. By enhancing biodiversity and promoting ecological resilience, the project demonstrates sustainable wetland restoration techniques, fostering environmental stewardship and strengthening the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
Floating wetlands are also highly effective at filtering harmful pollutants, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from the water. These plants, especially the Canna indica species, act as natural biofilters by absorbing these contaminants into their roots, reducing the nutrient load in the lake.
