Hindustan Zinc Ltd. announced on Friday that it has been ranked as the most sustainable metals and mining firm globally in the 2024 edition of the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment.
The company, rated as India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, claimed the top spot for the second consecutive year, outpacing 248 companies worldwide with an impressive score of 86. Last year, it was ranked 85 in the metals and mining industry.
Hindustan Zinc achieved the highest scores this year in key parameters such as climate strategy, community relations, waste and pollutant management, reflecting the company’s steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement and ethical governance.
The S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment is one of the world’s foremost benchmarks for assessing ESG performance. It evaluates companies based on a comprehensive view of their sustainability practices.
“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 that our operations benefit not only our business but also the communities and the environment we serve,” said Priya Agarwal Hebbar, chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd, in a statement.
A Pioneer in Energy Transition Metals
Hindustan Zinc’s success is rooted in its production of critical metals such as zinc and silver, essential for a sustainable future.
With over 75 percent of India’s primary zinc market share and a position as the world’s third-largest silver producer, the company plays a pivotal role in global decarbonization efforts and the energy transition.
The company’s sustainability roadmap includes ambitious goals such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, sourcing 70 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2027, and reducing energy consumption through operational efficiencies.
In July last year, the company launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low-carbon “green” zinc, creating a new milestone in its sustainable efforts.
Earlier this year, the company’s Pantnagar plant in Uttarakhand achieved a remarkable feat by transitioning to 100 percent renewable power. Deploying battery electric vehicles in underground mines and adopting circular economy practices further highlight Hindustan Zinc’s environmental leadership.
A Broader Vision for Sustainability
Hindustan Zinc’s efforts have also been recognized by the Carbon Disclosure Project, earning an “A-” designation in the Leadership Band for its work in water security and climate change.
Additionally, the company has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 14 percent since 2020, even as production volumes have grown.
As global industries grapple with the dual challenge of growth and sustainability, the company’s journey offers a blueprint for balancing profitability with purpose.
Its continued recognition on the global stage not only affirms its ESG commitments but also sets a benchmark for others in the metals and mining sector to follow.
Also Read:
Indian Corporates Embrace Science-Based Targets to Propel Net-Zero Ambitions
