Ambuja Cements: Building A Strong Foundation
Ambuja Cements, a member of the Adani Group with a cement production capacity of 31 million tonnes, is challenging the 'hard-to-abate' label often associated with the cement industry.
The company, which operates six integrated cement plants and eight grinding units, is known for sustainable development projects, environment-friendly practices, and a line of innovative products such as 'Ambuja Plus' and 'Ambuja Cool Walls', contributing to reducing carbon footprint.
Mitigating Carbon Emissions
The company's sustainable procurement initiative ensures a thorough assessment of suppliers based on risk parameters, prioritising responsible and sustainable practices. The company is actively working on reducing its carbon footprint and has developed a carbon reduction tracker alongside other initiatives.
Collaborating with the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the company has developed a water sustainability risk assessment framework utilising tools such as the World Business Council for Sustainable Development Global Water Tool.
Additionally, Ambuja Cements partners with local experts and forest departments to develop comprehensive biodiversity action plans demonstrating a commitment to preserving and enhancing biodiversity. With a commendable share of 89.5 per cent sustainable products in total sales, the company demonstrates its commitment to offering environmentally friendly solutions to customers.
In collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, the company actively develops green products, aiming to advance environmentally friendly cement production. The company has been included in the Green Product Catalogue of GRIHA, a national green rating system co-developed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.
Recycling and Waste Management
In recycling and waste management, the company optimises its production processes to enhance energy efficiency and incorporates waste-derived raw materials, accounting for about 32 per cent of the total raw materials used.
In a significant stride towards a circular economy, Ambuja Cements co-processes plastic waste in its kilns, resulting in a 3.5x plastic negative impact.
In FY22, the company co-processed almost 3 million tonnes of alternative fuels, substituting 5.1 per cent of the total thermal energy, thereby contributing to reduced environmental impact. Additionally, the company prioritises water conservation by recycling approximately 15 per cent of its total water withdrawal after proper treatment.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Ambuja Cements has shown a firm commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), particularly in youth training and community development. Through the Skill & Entrepreneurship Development Institutes (SEDI), the company provides comprehensive training, employment, and business opportunities to the youth in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation. An impact assessment study by Sattva Consulting highlighted best practices and benchmarking for SEDI, which has successfully trained over 81,200 youths. Furthermore, the company's emphasis on local procurement, with 92 per cent sourced locally, promotes community growth and sustainability communities.
