Hindustan Zinc Limited has recently initiated the second phase of transformation of wasteland into a greenbelt at Chanderiya lead-zinc smelter. In collaboration with the Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), the world's second largest integrated zinc producer and world's most sustainable metals and mining company according to S&P Global, the Hindustan Zinc uses Mycorrhiza technology.
The wasteland transformation containing Jarofix (a residual waste generated during metal extraction from the ore) rich in iron, has begun at Chanderiya lead-zinc smelter. Through the use of Mycorrhiza technology, the company has already yielded impressive results of transforming 6.5 hectares with approximately 11,000 native species planted leading to the creation of a high-density green cover. Aiming to stabilize dump slopes, control erosion and boost carbon sequestration in the current phase, this accomplishment was recognized with the CII National Award for Environmental Best Practices 2021.
Along with announcing the commencement of renewable power supply from Serentica's 180 MW solar project as part of its 450-MW renewable power delivery agreement (PDA), the company also celebrated the plantation of around 2 million plants around its operational units in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand.
Hindustan Zinc is also the pioneer Indian company to launch a Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) report. Along with the collaboration with the Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) with an aim to complete 1 million plantations by 2025, the company has also signed a collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Commenting on the accomplishment, Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, "As the world's most sustainable metals and mining company, we continue to set benchmarks in corporate environmental responsibility within the industry. The reclamation of the Jarofix Yard using Mycorrhiza technology is a testament to our innovative spirit and commitment to sustainable practices. We are proud to lead by example, demonstrating how industrial by-products can be turned into green assets."
Hindustan Zinc has also received the Leadership Band (A-) designation from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) for its efforts in water security and climate change. The company continues to plan and strive to achieve no net loss of biodiversity at all mine sites through closure by applying a mitigation hierarchy against a 2020 baseline.