On World Environment Day, Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s leading zinc producer and part of the Vedanta Group, announced a major milestone—becoming 3.32 times water positive. This achievement marks a significant increase from its previously verified 2.41 index and reflects the company’s continued commitment to water conservation. The progress was independently validated by DNV Business Assurance India Pvt. Ltd. through a detailed on-site and data audit.
Operating in Rajasthan, a region facing acute water scarcity, Hindustan Zinc has firmly established itself as a zero liquid discharge company. By aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 for clean water and sanitation, the company ensures that all process water and effluents are treated and reused, minimizing freshwater dependency and avoiding liquid waste discharge.
To mark the occasion, Hindustan Zinc introduced its 2030 Sustainability Goals, setting ambitious targets across multiple focus areas including water conservation, climate action, biodiversity, workplace safety, responsible sourcing, circular economy, and social responsibility. Among its core targets is the commitment to cut freshwater usage by 50% by 2030 (from a 2020 baseline) and transition fully to low-quality water for its smelting processes.
Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar stated, “Water is more than a resource—it’s a collective responsibility. Our journey to becoming 3.32 times water positive reflects our belief in preserving and replenishing this essential element. Through our 2030 goals, we are integrating sustainable practices into every part of our operations to build long-term ecological and social resilience.”
Earlier this year, Hindustan Zinc commissioned a 4,000 KLD Zero Liquid Discharge plant at Rampura Agucha, home to the world’s largest underground zinc mine. To celebrate World Environment Day, the company launched a plantation campaign with a target of over 1.5 lakh saplings to be planted in 2025. The week-long celebrations included interactive activities such as quizzes, eco-themed competitions, and awareness drives focused on conservation and climate action.
Hindustan Zinc is also the first Indian metals and mining company to receive Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) approval for its emissions goals in line with the 1.5°C climate threshold. Its product portfolio has Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certifications, offering transparency on environmental impact. The company also earned an ‘A-’ Leadership Band from CDP for its efforts in water management and climate initiatives.
A key player in global zinc production and among the top five silver producers worldwide, Hindustan Zinc supplies to over 40 countries and holds approximately 77% share of India’s primary zinc market. Recognized by S&P Global as the world’s most sustainable metals and mining company for two consecutive years, Hindustan Zinc is also behind EcoZen—Asia’s first green zinc brand with a carbon footprint 75% below the global average. With a focus on net-zero emissions by 2050 and transformative community programs benefiting over 2.3 million people, the company stands as one of India’s top CSR contributors and a leader in the energy transition metals space.
