UltraTech's sustainable journey
Harmonising economic goals with the development of employees, vendors and the communities in which it operates, is in the DNA of Aditya Birla Group (ABG), where the concept of trusteeship is deeply rooted. UltraTech Cement Ltd, part of the Aditya Birla Group, added one more dimension to the trusteeship concept when it formally began its sustainability journey. By OP Puranmalka, UltraTech Cement Ltd, India.
Rainwater harvesting at the mines of Vikram cement works, India
In 2006, UltraTech voluntarily joined the Cement Sustainability Initiative of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. As a member, it received access to the latest developments in the field of sustainability as well as case studies and initiatives, which enabled it to quickly raise awareness amongst its leadership, employees and other stakeholders.
Just as organisations focus on human and financial capital, UltraTech decided to move ahead quickly with its focus on natural capital. A call for action was given by the apex-level steering committee which was formed to spearhead the sustainability initiatives and oversee the activities of a working group based at the Mumbai head office. Sustainability Champions were identified at each plant and main offices.
While efforts were made on many fronts to become a more sustainable organisation, there were some key areas on which the company decided to concentrate: alternative fuels, water stewardship, safety and carbon emission reduction.
