As part of its commitment to sustainable development, Ambuja Cements Ltd. continues to scale up its efforts to build more robust and effective water resource management approaches in and around its operations to preserve and conserve this natural resource amidst growing water scarcity which is triggering ecological destabilisation.
Aligned with its Group LafargeHolcim’s Sustainable Development 2030 Plan covering climate, circular economy, water & nature, and people & communities; Ambuja Cement has already achieved 5.5 times water positive status – the highest in the industry in India – with its integrated plants in water-scarce Rajasthan and Gujarat clocking water index of 17.7 times and 12.7 times respectively. Internationally renowned external certification body DNV-GL comprehensively evaluated the company’s water management to accord this status.
On the company’s commitment towards water management, Ambuja Cement MD & CEO Ajay Kapur said, “Since inception, Ambuja Cement has exhibited a great commitment towards water resource management. Over the years, we have not only reduced the water footprint of our operations but also promoted responsible water management in partnership with various government and other local stakeholders. In fact, Ambuja Cement has adopted a True Value approach – encompassing people, planet, and profit – which has given us further impetus to meet our Group’s Sustainability Development Strategy objectives”
Ahead of its peers for its management of natural resources, the company recycled 13% of water in 2017 even as its operations continue to promote water conservation projects, land reclamation and push biodiversity action plans.
All plants send monthly Water Management Reports to the corporate office in Mumbai for information and discussion at regional as well as national executive committees. Water Key Performance Indicator (KPI) is used to compare and improve the performance.
In addition, the company provided over 37,000 Total Instant Mix Proportioning services; 10,500 Modular Curing Solution services; 210 rainwater harvesting skill-building sessions for construction professionals last year.
The company’s holistic initiatives in the purview of water harvesting, groundwater recharge, water-efficient agro, drinking water depository creation and water use efficiency through its CSR arm Ambuja Cement Foundation have improved the quality of land and environment. Renovation of traditional water reservoirs, pond deepening, roof rainwater harvesting structures (RRWHS) and reverse osmosis plants, among others have changed the landscape in the regions besides improving the livelihoods and lifestyle of people.