Policy & Environmental Advocacy
Shaping a Greener Tomorrow
WELCOME TO SAFE
SOCIAL ACTION FOR FOREST & ENVIRONMENT
SAFE turns ideas into action — from reviving ponds and wetlands to transforming dumping grounds into biodiversity parks, while advocating for stronger environmental policies. Through public awareness and community participation, we are creating living examples of sustainability where nature and communities grow together
TREE PLANTATION
PLANTING TOMORROW'S CANOPY
SAFE is deeply concerned about the rapid loss of green cover around us. As an environmental NGO, we work with communities, forest departments, local municipal bodies, and corporates to restore greenery through large-scale tree plantation. Our first priority is to rejuvenate degraded lands and dumping grounds, turning them into thriving green spaces.
We follow three scientifically designed plantation models and have already planted more than 200,000 native trees, creating resilient ecosystems for the future.
Miyawaki Forests
The Miyawaki method has gained popularity in India and across the world for its ability to grow dense forests in a short time. SAFE’s plantation team has developed expertise in this approach and has already created more than 10 Miyawaki forests, each receiving an excellent response from communities and stakeholders.
Biodiversity Parks
With rapid biodiversity loss, especially in urban areas, SAFE is creating mini biodiversity parks that bring native species back to city landscapes. So far, we have developed 5+ biodiversity parks, which have now taken shape as vibrant green spaces. These parks are enhancing local ecosystems, supporting urban biodiversity, and offering healthier environments for surrounding communities.
Conventional Plantation
Over the years, SAFE has led more than 100 plantation drives and planted over 200,000 native saplings. From villages to urban neighborhoods, schools to corporate campuses, our efforts have transformed degraded lands and open spaces into thriving green habitats. Each tree represents a commitment — to restore ecosystems and secure a sustainable future.
Over the years, SAFE has led more than 100 plantation drives and planted over 200,000 native saplings. From villages to urban neighborhoods, schools to corporate campuses, our efforts have transformed degraded lands and open spaces into thriving green habitats. Each tree represents a commitment — to restore ecosystems and secure a sustainable future.
Work for Water
NURTURING LIQUID LIFELINES
Close your eyes and listen – water bodies have stories to tell. Ponds, lakes, and wells were once nature’s lifelines. Neglect cast a dark shadow, leaving them in disarray.
This is where we intervene.
Water Body Revival
Our journey of revival breathes life into forgotten water bodies. We meticulously clean, prevent sewage inflow, and restore aquatic habitats. The best practices include involving local communities in regular maintenance and habitat restoration.
Wetland Conservation and Management
Preserving and nurturing wetlands is pivotal. We practice vigilant monitoring, invasive species control, and active community engagement in wetland protection.
Jal Panchayat (Water Awareness)
We raise awareness about the paramount importance of water. Our best practices encompass community workshops, educational initiatives for schoolchildren, and advocacy for sustainable water use practices.
River Pollution Control
SAFE is a staunch advocate for cleaner waterways. Our best practices entail collaboration with industries to encourage eco-friendly practices, constant water quality monitoring, and relentless advocacy for stricter pollution control measures.
Groundwater Protection
Safeguarding this essential resource is our duty. We educate farmers on sustainable irrigation practices, promote rainwater harvesting, and diligently monitor groundwater levels to prevent over-exploitation.
Rain water harvesting and waste water reuse
Capturing the essence of rain, drop by drop, secures our water future. Our best practices include designing efficient rainwater harvesting systems for homes and institutions, ensuring proper filtration, and utilizing harvested rainwater for non-potable purposes.
Work for Air Pollution Control
BREATHING EASIER
In the battle against air pollution, SAFE stands as a stalwart protector.
Stubble Burning Regulation
We’re at the forefront, combating stubble burning to preserve air quality. Best practices include promoting alternative uses for crop residues, providing subsidies for stubble management machinery, and conducting extensive awareness campaigns among farmers.
Dust and Industrial Pollution Control
Our mission extends to controlling dust and industrial pollution. We advocate for stricter emissions standards, promote green industrial practices, and employ robust air quality monitoring to drive policy changes.
Organic Farming
NOURISHING THE EARTH
- Around 15-20 kilometers from Noida lies Bhanauta, a village where Vikrant Tongad, the founder of SAFE, embarked on a groundbreaking experiment in 2013-14. His vision was to convert his family’s 20-acre farmland into a thriving organic farm.
- This experiment has grown into a remarkable success story, serving as both an inspiration and a practical model for sustainable organic farming. SAFE’s work in Bhanauta has encouraged farmers to adopt eco-friendly practices, emphasizing natural methods over synthetic pesticides and chemicals.
DEVELOPING URBAN FORESTS
WHERE COMMUNITIES & NATURE UNITES
Cities often echo with the rhythm of concrete, but we believe in the power of green dreams. Our mini-biodiversity parks are where nature and communities unite, where ecosystems thrive, and where urban life finds a moment of respite.
Canvas of Transformation
Abandoned lands become canvases of transformation, parks are born from former wastelands, and life flourishes in the heart of urban jungles.
Nature's Classrooms and Sanctuaries
These parks aren’t just spaces – they’re classrooms for the curious, sanctuaries for the weary, and homes for a diversity of life.
Harmony with City Rhythms
Groundwater is recharged, microclimates are cooled, and nature’s whispers harmonize with city rhythms.
GUARDIANS OF GREEN
PROTECTING & NURTURING NATURE
At SAFE, we’re not just planters; we’re guardians of green legacies. When the echo of chainsaws threatens trees, we stand as a shield.
Guardians at the Gate
Whispers of concern from our volunteers become the battle cry for nature’s protection.
Allies for Nature
We collaborate with forest officials and agencies, rescuing trees and safeguarding their rightful place in the landscape.
Environment and Climate Education
CULTIVATING AWARENESS
SAFE’s core mission revolves around fostering a profound emotional connection with our audience. Our primary goal is to inspire individuals to embrace environmental sustainability and social responsibility. We aim to set an example by actively engaging in these practices and educating the public through various initiatives, including public awareness campaigns and school events like Jal Panchayats.
Through our efforts, SAFE strives to demonstrate unwavering dedication to the cause of environmental preservation. We believe that leading by example is the most effective way to instill these values in the hearts and minds of our target audience.
Climate Change Mitigation and Adoption Work
EMBRACING A SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW
SAFE stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change. Our mission is clear: to mitigate and adapt to climate challenges, forging a sustainable future for all.
Climate Guardians
SAFE takes the lead in climate action. We work relentlessly to not only combat climate change but also to foster resilience in our communities, ecosystems, and industries.
Community Empowerment
At the heart of our approach is community empowerment. We equip individuals with knowledge and resources, turning them into environmental stewards. Together, we create a groundswell of positive change.
Global Collaboration
SAFE knows that tackling climate change requires a united effort. We collaborate with organizations, governments, and individuals worldwide, building a network of change-makers.
Legacy of Sustainability
Our work is a lasting legacy. We are writing a story of resilience, innovation, and hope for future generations.
WATER
WORK FOR
WATER
Nurturing Liquid Lifelines
“Water is life, yet in India, a country that hosts nearly 20% of the world’s population, we have access to only about 4% of the planet’s freshwater. This imbalance makes every drop precious—and every act of waste or pollution a threat to our future. SAFE Trust was born from this urgency, with a mission to protect and conserve water through thoughtful, practical, and community-driven action. We believe that water can only be saved, not created, and this belief guides our multi-pronged approach to water conservation, restoration, and sustainable management.”
Pond Restoration
One of SAFE’s flagship campaigns, our pond and lake restoration work goes far beyond temporary cleaning. We adopt a scientific and community-driven approach to ensure long-term ecological recovery. So far, we have worked on more than 10 ponds, transforming neglected water bodies into thriving ecosystems. Through innovative and nature-based solutions, we help ponds regain their natural form and function—benefiting both the environment and the local communities that depend on them.
Wetland Conservation and Management
Wetlands are vital to both our ecosystem and economy, yet awareness about their importance remains limited. As a result, many wetlands across the country are shrinking—often filled with soil and waste. To counter this loss, SAFE works at both ground and policy levels for wetland conservation and restoration.
Our journey began with the Surajpur Wetland in Greater Noida, and today, our efforts extend to Dhanuri Wetland and other small and large wetlands across the Delhi-NCR and beyond. We combine awareness, scientific methods, and indigenous practices to protect and rejuvenate these critical ecosystems.
Jal Panchayat (Water Meeting)
Awareness is one of the most powerful tools in water conservation. If people become conscious about the value of water, they can save a significant amount every day.
For the past 15 years, we have been continuously working to raise public awareness about water conservation and how ordinary citizens can save water in their daily lives. Our first Water Rally was organised in year 2010 with schoolchildren in the village of Khedi-Bhanota, Greater Noida, which created a remarkable impact. Since then, we have conducted more than 100 Jal Panchayats across various villages, RWAs, colleges, and schools — and the movement continues to grow stronger.
River Pollution Control
As an environmental organization, SAFE is committed to contributing to the protection and rejuvenation of our country’s rivers. We began this initiative with a focus on the Ganga, Yamuna, and Hindon rivers.
Our work primarily aims to stop the discharge of untreated effluents, prevent solid waste dumping, curb illegal mining, and regulate excessive groundwater extraction. We also emphasize the protection of floodplains and raising public awareness about river conservation.
In Hapur, our sustained efforts led to the stoppage of untreated discharge from a sugar mill into the Yamuna River, ensuring strict action against the violators. Alongside enforcement, we also focus on reviving ponds, lakes, and wetlands within river basins to help restore the natural water cycle.
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Rain water harvesting and waste water reuse
Rooftop rainwater harvesting is one of our flagship initiatives. So far, we have worked across Delhi-NCR to promote effective rainwater harvesting systems at metro stations, as well as in some government and private buildings — achieving significant success in several locations.
Alongside this, we are also advocating the reuse of treated water from sewage treatment plants (STPs) for irrigation purposes in parks, golf courses, and greenbelts — as an alternative to fresh groundwater. These efforts have yielded encouraging results; for instance, at a golf course in Noida, our intervention led to restrictions on groundwater extraction and the adoption of treated water for irrigation.
Our work in this area continues in close cooperation with local municipal bodies.
Groundwater Protection
GROUNDWATER PROTECTION
Join Our Symphony of Change Today!
SAFE is more than an organisation – it’s a declaration of our commitment to a better world. Together, we compose a symphony of change, where each note resounds with the promise of a greener, healthier, and more harmonious future.
A Symphony of Action
Every action, every tree, every drop of water, every breath of clean air, and every step towards sustainability plays a pivotal role in our mission.
Towards a Thriving Tomorrow
As we work towards a world where nature thrives, communities flourish, and our planet sings with life, we leave a legacy that resonates with beauty, sustainability, and hope.
Welcome to SAFE, where every action we take is a verse in the anthem of change.