Hindustan Zinc Secures Global Sustainability Top Rank Again
By
siliconindia | Friday, 03 January 2025, 04:39 Hrs
Hindustan Zinc has once again demonstrated its leadership in sustainability by securing the top global rank in the 2024 edition of the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). The company outperformed 248 peers in the metals and mining sector with an impressive score of 86, marking the second consecutive year it has held this position.
The S&P Global CSA is a renowned benchmark for evaluating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance, providing insights into a company’s sustainability practices. Hindustan Zinc’s achievement underscores its commitment to responsible manufacturing, bolstered by its top scores in critical parameters such as climate strategy, community relations, and waste and pollutant management.
In 2023, the company achieved the same global distinction with a score of 85. This year’s success reflects Hindustan Zinc’s forward-thinking approach, integrating environmental stewardship, community development, ethical governance, and innovation. Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc, remarked, “From low-carbon zinc to circular economy practices, we remain focused on creating a sustainable future for all. This recognition motivates us to continue driving positive change, ensuring our operations benefit the communities and environment we serve”.
As a producer of zinc and silver critical metals for the energy transition Hindustan Zinc plays a pivotal role in global decarbonization efforts. With over 75% primary zinc market share in India and ranking as the third-largest silver producer globally, the company is aligning its operations with its Net Zero by 2050 target. By 2027, it aims to source 70% of its energy needs from renewable power.
In a major milestone, Hindustan Zinc recently commenced production of EcoZen, Asia’s first low-carbon zinc, using renewable energy. Its decarbonization efforts include increasing renewable energy use, transitioning to electric vehicles, adopting cleaner fuels, and optimizing energy efficiency. These initiatives have helped the company reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity by 14% in FY24 compared to its 2020 baseline, even as production volumes increased.
Hindustan Zinc’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond emissions reduction. Its Pantnagar plant in Uttarakhand operates entirely on renewable energy, and the company has deployed battery electric vehicles in underground mines. Circular economy practices further enhance its environmental contributions.
The company’s efforts have garnered global recognition. In addition to its CSA ranking, Hindustan Zinc received an 'A-' Leadership Band designation from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) for its achievements in water security and climate change.
Hindustan Zinc’s ongoing initiatives affirm its position as a sustainability leader, setting benchmarks for the metals and mining industry while advancing toward a greener future.
