On biodiversity day, Vedanta Aluminium announces multiple initiatives to protect wildlife and restore habitats across its operations

On the International Day for Biological Diversity, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, announces a series of initiatives dedicated to preserving biodiversity and restoring natural habitats across its operational regions. The company has undertaken wide-ranging measures such as rescuing and safely releasing over a thousand reptiles and small wildlife, developing greenbelts, conducting pond cleaning drives, reintroducing native species, launching large-scale afforestation efforts, and implementing educational outreach programs in local communities to foster a culture of ecological stewardship.

This year’s theme, “Harmony with nature and sustainable development" echoes Vedanta Aluminium’s commitment to aligning industrial growth with ecological responsibility. Vedanta Aluminium has partnered with PwC India to revise existing Biodiversity Management Plans at its operational sites. These plans are part of Vedanta’s broader strategy to restore ecological balance and conserve biodiversity for achieving No Net Loss (NNL).

Commenting on the achievements of the past year and Vedanta Aluminium’s ongoing biodiversity initiatives, Rajiv Kumar, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium, said, “Our commitment to biodiversity goes beyond compliance, it is woven into the very fabric of our operations. Over the past year, we have made significant strides in protecting and nurturing the ecosystems around our sites. As we move forward, we remain focused on fostering a positive environmental legacy for future generations, working closely with our partners and communities to ensure that biodiversity remains at the heart of our growth trajectory.”

• At Jharsuguda, Odisha, home to the company’s mega aluminium plant, the team is organizing pond restoration activities in 30 villages as part of the International Day for Biological Diversity celebrations. This community-driven initiative aims to improve water quality and support healthy aquatic ecosystems, reinforcing the company’s commitment to improving both environmental and community well-being. Further enriching the region’s green cover, an avenue plantation drive will be held spanning across 1.2 km on both sides of the road. Additionally, plans are underway for the renovation and beautification of two gardens at Jharsuguda, creating vibrant, green spaces for the community to enjoy.
• At its Jamkhani coal operations in Sundargarh, Odisha, Vedanta Aluminium has adopted the innovative Miyawaki method of afforestation, planting a diverse mix of native trees, sub-trees, and shrubs at high density to create fast-growing, self-sustaining forests. The project began with 3.65 lakh saplings across 18 hectares along the mine’s periphery. This greenbelt will act as a biodiversity hotspot and model for regenerative environmental practices in mining areas.
• At BALCO, a unit of Vedanta Aluminium located in Korba, Chhattisgarh, a dedicated Animal Rescue Team of trained snake-handlers serves as a rapid response unit across the smelter, township, and nearby areas. Focused on protecting both wildlife and people, the team rescued and safely released over a thousand snakes and other small animals in the past year. Additionally, over 60 hectares of unoperational tailing dams have been reclaimed through plantations of native species like Siras, Sheesam, Karanj, Gulmohar, and Neem.

Vedanta Aluminium also places a strong emphasis on environmental education and community involvement. Regular outreach programs are conducted for local school children and families of employees, engaging them in tree plantation drives, nature walks, and awareness activities such as Hug-a-Tree and human-chain events. These initiatives are designed to foster a deep-rooted sense of nature consciousness among the next generation.

Through these comprehensive initiatives, ranging from wildlife rescue and habitat restoration to scientific afforestation and community engagement, Vedanta Aluminium continues to set industry benchmarks in sustainable development. The company’s ongoing efforts reflect its belief that economic progress and ecological preservation must go hand in hand, ensuring a greener, more resilient future for all, under its broader “Transforming for Good” vision that seeks to work towards “Transforming the Planet”.

Note: This article has been issued by Vedanta Aluminium and has been published by AL Circle with its original information, and without any modifications or edits.