Hindustan Zinc Signs MoU with TERI for 250-Hectare Ecological Restoration Project in Rajasthan

Udaipur: Hindustan Zinc Limited, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer and one of the top ten silver producers globally, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) to develop a 250-hectare ecological restoration project in Rajasthan. The initiative aims to create the world’s largest green cover within an industrial complex and marks a significant step in transforming industrial landscapes into thriving natural ecosystems.

The project will be developed at Hindustan Zinc’s Chanderiya Lead-Zinc Smelting Complex in Chittorgarh district. It is expected to play a key role in advancing the company’s Sustainability Goals 2030, focusing on reversing biodiversity loss, promoting nature-positive outcomes, and creating long-term environmental value through measurable ecological improvements.

The restoration project will adopt a scientific and multi-layered ecological approach, incorporating native trees, shrubs, herbs, and grasses suited to the local environment. It will also include the management of invasive species, support for water bodies and aquatic ecosystems, and the development of long-term maintenance and protection protocols. TERI will assist in identifying suitable indigenous and climate-resilient plant species and provide expert guidance throughout the planning, design, and implementation phases.

This new collaboration further strengthens Hindustan Zinc’s longstanding partnership with TERI at the Chanderiya Smelting Complex. Ecological restoration has already been successfully completed across 22.25 hectares of industrial wasteland in the Jarofix yard through two phases of development. The restored area has been transformed into a functional ecosystem with rich biodiversity and dense green cover.

In addition, a 6-hectare Biodiversity Park is being developed on top of a secured landfill within the complex. Using TERI’s Mycorrhiza Technology, nearly 56,400 native trees have been planted, significantly enhancing greenery and ecological balance across the industrial site.

Speaking on the occasion, Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Limited, said:

"At Hindustan Zinc, sustainability lies at the heart of everything we do. From responsible water management and circularity to decarbonization and biodiversity conservation, our focus remains on building resilient and future-ready operations. Our partnership with TERI reflects this commitment as we transform industrial land into thriving green ecosystems that support local biodiversity and ecological restoration. As the first Indian company to join the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), we are aligned with global sustainability benchmarks and remain committed to creating lasting value for the environment, communities, and the nation."

The initiative aligns with Hindustan Zinc’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) roadmap, which emphasizes land restoration, biodiversity conservation, responsible water management, decarbonization, and sustainable natural resource stewardship.

The company continues to strengthen its sustainability performance through a 530 MW round-the-clock renewable energy agreement, which is expected to meet more than 70 percent of its electricity requirements. Initial power supply under the agreement has already commenced. Hindustan Zinc has also improved its water recycling rate to 49 percent and expanded its green mobility fleet to 232 vehicles, including electric and LNG-powered vehicles.

A Vedanta Group company, Hindustan Zinc was recently recognized as the World’s Most Sustainable Metals and Mining Company for the third consecutive year in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2025.

With the proposed 250-hectare ecological restoration project, Hindustan Zinc is further reinforcing its commitment to responsible industrial operations, regenerative landscapes, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and the creation of long-term value for communities and the environment.