Hindustan Zinc, TERI Partner for 250-Hectare Ecological Restoration Project in Rajasthan

Hindustan Zinc Ltd, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer & one of the top 10 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 that is set to become the world's largest green cover area within industrial premises. To be undertaken at Hindustan Zinc’s Chanderiya Lead Zinc Smelter Complex in Chittorgarh district, the initiative marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to reimagine industrial landscapes as thriving natural ecosystems.

This collaboration plays a critical role in advancing Hindustan Zinc’s Sustainability Goal 2030 on halting and reversing biodiversity loss through measurable improvements and to progressively work towards delivering a Net Positive Impact (NPI), supporting nature-positive outcomes over the long term.

The project will follow a scientific, multi-layered ecological restoration approach, comprising native trees, shrubs, herbs, and grasses suited to the local landscape. It will also include measures for invasive species management, support for water bodies and aquatic ecosystems, and the development of long-term maintenance and protection protocols. TERI will also support the identification of suitable native and adaptive plant species and bring in subject matter experts across the planning, design, and implementation phases.

This new collaboration builds on Hindustan Zinc’s longstanding collaboration with TERI at the Chanderiya Lead Zinc Smelter Complex. At the Jarofix Yard (an area where residue generated during the zinc smelting process is safely stored and managed), restoration activities covering 22.25 hectares have already been completed in two phases, transforming degraded industrial land into ecologically functional and biodiverse green cover. In parallel, a 6-hectare biodiversity park is being developed atop the secured landfill within the complex. Using TERI’s Mycorrhiza technology, the initiative has enabled the plantation of nearly 56,400 native trees, creating dense green cover even in challenging industrial conditions.

Commenting on the development, Arun Misra, CEO, Hindustan Zinc Ltd, said, “At Hindustan Zinc, sustainability is paramount to how we operate. From water stewardship and circularity to decarbonization and biodiversity conservation, our focus is on building responsible, future-ready operations. Our partnership with TERI reflects this commitment by transforming industrial land into resilient green ecosystems that support native biodiversity and ecological restoration. As the first Indian company to join ICMM, we continue to align with global benchmarks in sustainable mining and remain committed to creating lasting value for the environment, communities, and the nation.”

The initiative is aligned with Hindustan Zinc’s broader Environment, Social & Governance (ESG) roadmap, which places strong emphasis on land restoration, biodiversity conservation, water stewardship, decarbonization, and responsible natural resource management. The company has been strengthening its sustainability performance through its 530 MW round-the-clock renewable energy agreement, expected to meet over 70 percent of its power requirement, with initial supply already underway. It 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.

For more information: www.hzlindia.com