Hindustan Zinc Limited, the country’s leading and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, has officially joined the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), becoming the first Indian company to gain membership. This move places India at the forefront of global efforts to promote responsible mining and sustainable development in the metals industry.
ICMM is a global leadership body comprising 25 of the world’s major mining and metals companies, committed to setting high standards in sustainability, environmental responsibility, and ethical practices. Hindustan Zinc’s inclusion followed a comprehensive assessment and approval process by ICMM’s Council, based on guidance from an Independent Expert Review Panel. This marks ICMM’s first new membership since 2021 and highlights its growing focus on South Asia.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc, remarked,
“This milestone is a matter of national pride. Becoming ICMM’s first Indian member reinforces our dedication to innovation, sustainable practices, and responsible resource management. It opens up new opportunities to collaborate with global industry leaders as we continue to support the world’s transition to cleaner energy and smarter mining.”
By joining ICMM, Hindustan Zinc has committed to meeting 40 performance expectations that cover Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. These commitments will apply to all of its operations and be verified by independent third-party assessments.
Arun Misra, CEO and Whole-time Director of Hindustan Zinc, added,
“This marks a major step in our Sustainability 2.0 journey. Integrating ICMM’s rigorous principles into our operations reflects our core belief that long-term business success goes hand in hand with environmental and social stewardship. As we share our own experiences and learn from global peers, our focus remains on delivering meaningful impact through transparency, innovation, and inclusive growth.”
Welcoming Hindustan Zinc into the fold, ICMM President and CEO Rohitesh Dhawan said,
“We are thrilled to welcome Hindustan Zinc as our first Indian member. Their inclusion strengthens both our global efforts and India’s voice in the international mining conversation. It’s an important step as we deepen our engagement in the region and continue driving transformation across the mining sector.”
Headquartered in Udaipur, Hindustan Zinc operates advanced underground mines and smelters across northwest India. The company is publicly listed and follows strong governance practices, with regular sustainability reporting and independent audits.
Hindustan Zinc has received global recognition for its leadership in areas such as tailings management, decarbonisation, circular economy models, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. It was ranked as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining sector for two consecutive years by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (2023 & 2024).
The company has set ambitious sustainability goals for 2030 across key areas including climate action, biodiversity, water conservation, and social impact. It aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 or earlier and has already cut its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 15% since FY20, while continuing to grow production.
Hindustan Zinc also launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low-carbon zinc brand, produced using renewable energy and carrying a carbon footprint 75% below the global average. The company holds an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) verified portfolio, offering full transparency at the product level.
Additionally, Hindustan Zinc is certified as 3.32 times Water Positive and ranks among India’s top 10 corporate contributors to social impact, having transformed the lives of 2.3 million people through community-focused programs. Supplying to over 40 countries and holding a dominant share of India’s primary zinc market, Hindustan Zinc plays a crucial role in providing essential metals for the global energy transition.
