From Recycling to Replenishment: Vedanta Hits 31% Water Recycling Rate in FY26

New Delhi: Marking World Water Day, Vedanta Limited announced it has recycled and reused over 85 million cubic metres of water across its operations in FY26 (till February), equivalent to more than 34,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools, underlining its growing focus on sustainable water management.

With global concerns mounting over a projected 40% water shortfall by 2030, the natural resources major said its Water Positivity Index has reached 0.63, reflecting a measurable and technology-driven approach to water stewardship.

Three-Pronged Water Strategy

Vedanta’s integrated water management model rests on three core pillars—recycle, conserve, and replenish. The company has achieved a 31% water recycling rate, placing it among the higher benchmarks in water-intensive industries. Additionally, over 7 million cubic metres of water has been replenished through groundwater recharge and watershed initiatives.

Key businesses, including Hindustan Zinc, Cairn Oil & Gas, and iron ore operations, have already attained net water positive status, where water replenishment exceeds freshwater consumption.

Tech-Driven Efficiency Gains

The company continues to cut freshwater dependency through innovation:

• BALCO is saving nearly 4,800 m³ of water daily by reusing cooling tower blowdown
• Meenakshi Energy Limited operates entirely on 100% seawater, eliminating freshwater use
• Adoption of closed-loop water systems across operations is further enhancing efficiency

Community Impact Across 225+ Villages

Aligning with the World Water Day theme “Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Equality Grows,” Vedanta has scaled its water and WASH initiatives:

• Reaching 225+ villages and benefiting over 1.05 million people
• Providing 30 lakh litres of safe drinking water via RO plants, solar borewells, and infrastructure
• Rolling out rainwater harvesting, pond rejuvenation, and irrigation support projects

ESL Steel Strengthens Water Sustainability

Vedanta subsidiary ESL Steel Limited reported notable progress in FY26:

• 6% reduction in freshwater withdrawal
• 32% water recycling rate
• Installation of 5 sewage treatment plants (575 kLD capacity) for reuse in horticulture and road sprinkling
• Revival of ponds in Huthupather and Alkusha, improving water access for local communities

Deputy CEO & Whole-Time Director Ravish Sharma said the company’s focus remains on reducing freshwater use, boosting recycling, and advancing water positivity to support sustainable industrial growth.

National Recognition & 2030 Goal

Vedanta’s efforts have earned national recognition, with Hindustan Zinc’s Rajpura Dariba Complex becoming the first Vedanta unit to receive NITI Aayog’s Water Positivity certification.

Looking ahead, the company aims to scale innovation, ecosystem restoration, and community partnerships, with a clear target of becoming fully Net Water Positive by 2030.