Strategic Initiatives For Water Conservation
As the world celebrates World Water Day, Vedanta, one of India’s leading natural resource companies, has reaffirmed its commitment to water conservation by setting an ambitious goal: achieving Net Water Positivity by 2030. This milestone is part of its broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitment to ensuring responsible resource management and sustainable business practices. Several of Vedanta’s business units, including Cairn Oil & Gas, Hindustan Zinc (HZL), Sesa Goa, Black Mountain Mines, and FACOR mines, have already been certified as water-positive, reflecting the company’s dedication to responsible water stewardship.
Sustainable Water Management at the Core of Vedanta’s Strategy
Vedanta’s sustainability roadmap is centred on reducing freshwater dependency and enhancing conservation efforts. The company has successfully implemented Internal Water Pricing across its operations, which promotes efficient water use and drives accountability. Since FY21, Vedanta has reduced freshwater consumption by 3%, with HZL leading the charge through its zero-discharge policy and an ambitious target to cut freshwater usage by 25% by 2025.
One of the key projects in this sustainability drive is the 60 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant in Udaipur, which treats wastewater for industrial reuse. This initiative significantly reduces Vedanta’s reliance on natural freshwater sources while promoting circular water usage.
Empowering Communities Through Water Access
Beyond optimizing internal efficiencies, Vedanta is actively working to transform lives in water-stressed regions. Through Hindustan Zinc’s Drinking Water and Water Augmentation project, the company provides potable drinking water in Rajasthan, one of India’s most drought-prone states. In collaboration with Neer Amrit, Vedanta has deployed RO/ATM water stations and water tankers across six locations and five districts, ensuring thousands of residents have access to clean drinking water.
Similarly, the Cairn Oil & Gas Jeevan Amrit Project has played a pivotal role in rural water accessibility by installing 124 RO plants. These facilities supplied 6.9 million litres of safe drinking water in FY 2024, benefiting over 11,429 families.
Leadership Commitment to Water Security
Commenting on Vedanta’s vision, Deshnee Naidoo, CEO of Vedanta Resources, emphasized the importance of sustainability in operations:
“At Vedanta, we recognize that every drop of water is invaluable—not just for our operations, but for the communities and ecosystems in which we operate. Our commitment to achieving Net Water Positivity by 2030 is a testament to our dedication to responsible resource management and environmental stewardship. By integrating cutting-edge conservation technologies, optimizing freshwater use, and investing in community-driven initiatives, we reduce our water footprint and create a lasting positive impact. Sustainability is at the heart of our business, and we will continue to set new benchmarks in ESG excellence as we work towards a water-secure future for all.”
Scaling Water Replenishment and Groundwater Recharge Projects
Vedanta is also making significant strides in groundwater recharge and rainwater harvesting to ensure long-term water sustainability. Some of its flagship initiatives include:
- Rampura Agucha Mine’s Groundwater Recharge Project: This initiative, with an 8.7 million m³ capacity, is designed to replenish water levels in the region, directly impacting groundwater sustainability.
- Cairn Oil & Gas Rainwater Harvesting Structures: Set to contribute 2.5 million m³ of freshwater annually by 2025, these structures aim to capture and store rainwater for industrial and community use.
- Vedanta Aluminium’s Watershed Management Project in Lanjigarh: This project facilitates 34.5 lakh m³ of water storage, supporting agriculture and local communities and ensuring long-term water security.
A Model for Industrial Sustainability
As industries worldwide face increasing scrutiny over their water usage, Vedanta is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable water management. By integrating innovative technologies, optimizing operational efficiencies, and actively contributing to local water conservation, Vedanta sets a gold standard for responsible water stewardship.
With global climate challenges intensifying, responsible corporate players like Vedanta must drive sustainable solutions. By aligning its business objectives with water conservation and community welfare, Vedanta proves that industry and sustainability can go hand in hand.
The Road to 2030
As Vedanta continues its journey towards Net Water Positivity by 2030, it remains committed to pioneering ESG-led solutions. By reducing its freshwater footprint, investing in community water projects, and adopting advanced conservation technologies, Vedanta is making significant strides toward a water-secure and sustainable future.
With its ongoing efforts, Vedanta strengthens its industry leadership and contributes to a broader global movement towards responsible water resource management. The company’s holistic approach serves as a model for corporations worldwide, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand in the modern business landscape.
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