India News : Vedanta Limited has announced that it has recycled and reused over 85 million cubic metres of water in FY’26 (till February), marking a major step in sustainable water management. The volume is equivalent to more than 34,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
The announcement comes on the occasion of World Water Day, as concerns rise over a projected 40% global water shortfall by 2030. Vedanta’s Water Positivity Index stands at 0.63, reflecting its structured approach to water conservation.
💧 Integrated Water Strategy
Vedanta’s water stewardship is based on three core pillars:
- Recycle: Reuse of treated water across operations
- Conserve: Improving efficiency and reducing water consumption
- Replenish: Groundwater recharge and watershed development
The company has achieved a 31% water recycling rate, placing it among global leaders in water-intensive industries. Additionally, it has replenished over 7 million cubic metres of water through various initiatives.
Key businesses like Hindustan Zinc Limited, Cairn Oil & Gas, and its iron ore operations have already achieved net water positive status.
⚙️ Innovation Driving Efficiency
Vedanta continues to deploy advanced solutions to reduce freshwater dependency:
- At Bharat Aluminium Company, reuse of cooling tower water saves nearly 4,800 m³ daily
- Meenakshi Energy Limited operates entirely on 100% seawater
- Adoption of closed-loop water management systems across operations
🌍 Community Impact at Scale
Aligned with the World Water Day theme “Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Equality Grows,” Vedanta is expanding its community initiatives:
- Water and sanitation (WASH) programs across 225+ villages
- Benefiting over 1.05 million people
- Providing 30 lakh litres of safe drinking water through RO systems and solar borewells
Projects include rainwater harvesting, pond rejuvenation, irrigation support, and groundwater recharge systems across multiple states.
🏭 ESL Steel’s Contribution
ESL Steel Limited has shown notable progress in FY’26:
- Reduced freshwater usage by 6%
- Achieved 32% water recycling rate
- Installed 5 sewage treatment plants (STPs) with 575 kLD capacity
- Rejuvenated ponds in Huthupather and Alkusha, improving water access for local communities
Deputy CEO Ravish Sharma stated that water sustainability remains central to ESL’s operational strategy and long-term growth.
🏆 National Recognition
Vedanta’s efforts have earned national recognition, with the Rajpura Dariba Complex of Hindustan Zinc becoming the first Vedanta unit to receive certification from NITI Aayog for water positivity.
🔮 Way Forward
Vedanta aims to further scale its sustainability initiatives through innovation, ecosystem restoration, and community partnerships, with a clear goal of becoming fully Net Water Positive by 2030.
