Vedanta Aluminium Strengthens Biodiversity and Carbon Reduction Efforts in Odisha with PwC Partnership

•  New initiatives build on ongoing programs to enhance ecological balance, restore habitats, and drive community-centric carbon reduction in Jharsuguda, Odisha

Bhubaneswar,November 27, 2024: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer and a leader in sustainable development, has reinforced its position as an environmental leader by spearheadingimpactful biodiversity and carbon reduction initiatives in Odisha through a strategic partnership with PwC India. This collaboration builds on Vedanta Aluminium’s long-standing commitment to sustainable development by introducing innovative methods for ecological conservation and community engagement.

Vedanta has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with PwC India, whichencompasses a range of pioneering projects designed to restore ecological balance, mitigate climate impacts, and foster community well-being. With a focus on global best practices, innovative assessment tools, and local collaboration, these initiatives will create measurable outcomes for biodiversity conservation and carbon reduction.

Under this partnership, PwC India will design and help put into action the following initiatives:

•  Implementation of advanced carbon sequestration projects aimed at generating carbon credits for further offsetting emissions
•  Leveraging GIS-based mapping tools and seasonal plans, invasive species will be systematically removed and replaced with native flora to restore the natural ecosystem
•  Distribute energy-efficient cooking stoves in local communities to minimize biofuel usage and achieve avoided emissions, thereby reducing overall carbon footprint
•  Establish dense forests using the Miyawaki technique to boost local biodiversity and accelerate carbon sequestration

These efforts include the restoration of degraded lands to achieve No Net Loss of biodiversity, guided by detailed habitat development plans created in collaboration with local NGOs and Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs). To combat carbon emissions, Vedanta Aluminium will distribute 2000improved cookstoves to local communities, promoting cleaner cooking methods that improve air quality and reduce consumption of traditional biomass fuels.

The company will also address ecological imbalances by eradicating invasive species and reintroducing native flora using GIS-based mapping and seasonal restoration plans. Further, the company will employ the established methods to create dense, fast-growing forests, significantly boosting carbon sequestration efforts. These initiatives collectively underscore Vedanta Aluminium’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Commenting on this partnership, Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Vedanta Aluminium, said, “This collaboration with PwC reinforces Vedanta Aluminium’s commitment to sustainable growth and environmental stewardship. By addressing critical ecological challenges and fostering community well-being, we aim to set new benchmarks for responsible business practices in the industrial sector.Together, we are taking decisive steps to ensure the conservation of our natural resources for future generations while fostering a healthier, greener planet.”

To ensure effective planning and execution, Vedanta Aluminium and PwC will utilise globally recognised biodiversity tools such as the BRICS (Biodiversity Risk and Impact Assessment Tool) and GIS platforms for spatial mapping and restoration planning. These initiatives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Climate Action (SDG 13),Life on Land (SDG15)and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12).

Further highlighting the importance of this collaboration, Mr. Sandeep Kumar Mohanty, Partner- ESG Strategy & Transformation/Leader- Sustainability and Climate Strategy, PwC India said, “We are engaged by Vedanta Limited to explore advanced strategies for preserving biodiversity and reducing carbon emissions. Our efforts aim to support a more sustainable future for local communities and the environment.”

As India’s largest aluminium producer, Vedanta Aluminium remains steadfast in its commitment to driving sustainable industrial practices. By aligning its operations with ecological and social imperatives, the company continues to deliver on its mission of fostering a greener, more sustainable future.

Vedanta Aluminium, a business of Vedanta Limited, is India’s largest producer of aluminium, manufacturing more than half of India’s aluminium i.e., 2.37 million tonnes in FY24. It is a leader in value-added aluminium products that find critical applications in core industries. Vedanta Aluminium ranks 1st in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023 world rankings for the aluminium industry, a reflection of its leading sustainable development practices. With its world-class aluminium smelters, alumina refinery and power plants in India, the company fulfils its mission of spurring emerging applications of aluminium as the ‘Metal of the Future’ for a greener tomorrow.