Hindustan Zinc, India’s only and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, has become the first Indian company to join the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM). This milestone positions India firmly on the global map of responsible mining.

ICMM is a leadership body comprising 25 of the world’s leading mining and metals companies committed to advancing sustainable development, transparency, and ethical practices. Hindustan Zinc’s induction follows a rigorous independent assessment and endorsement by ICMM’s Council of CEOs, based on recommendations from the Independent Expert Review Panel (IERP). This marks ICMM’s first new member since 2021 and deepens its engagement in South Asia.

Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc, said, “Hindustan Zinc’s induction into ICMM marks a proud milestone – not just for our company, but for India. It reaffirms our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and responsible resource development, while opening opportunities to collaborate with some of the world’s most respected mining leaders. This is our moment to lead from the front, power the global energy transition, and set new industry benchmarks.”

Arun Misra, CEO & Whole-time Director, Hindustan Zinc, added, “This milestone marks a new chapter in our Sustainability 2.0 journey, grounded in transparency, innovation, and global best practices. Sustainability and good business go hand in hand, and we are committed to creating lasting positive impact on the environment, communities, and the industry. As we integrate ICMM’s principles across our operations, we look forward to exchanging insights with global peers to shape a safer, more responsible future for mining.”

Rohitesh Dhawan, President and CEO, ICMM, said, “We are delighted to welcome Hindustan Zinc as ICMM’s first Indian member. This is a significant milestone for both ICMM and India’s mining industry, and reflects the growing interest from companies in advancing responsible mining practices.”

Commitment to ESG Leadership

By joining ICMM, Hindustan Zinc commits to meeting 40 performance expectations covering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, with third-party validation across all operations. The IERP recognised the company’s leadership in tailings management, decarbonisation, circular economy, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Headquartered in Udaipur, the company operates silver-lead-zinc underground mines, smelters, and allied infrastructure across northwest India. It is consistently ranked among the world’s most sustainable metals and mining companies, securing the top global ranking in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment for the sector in 2023 and 2024.

Hindustan Zinc has set ambitious 2030 sustainability goals covering climate action, biodiversity, water stewardship, circularity, and inclusive growth, and is targeting net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner. It was the first Indian metals and mining company to receive Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validation aligned with the 1.5°C threshold, achieving a 15 per cent reduction in GHG emissions intensity in FY25 versus a 2020 baseline. The company also produced Asia’s first low-carbon zinc, EcoZen, powered by renewable energy, and holds an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)-verified portfolio.

With its ICMM membership, Hindustan Zinc strengthens its position as a global benchmark for responsible mining, amplifying India’s voice in shaping the future of sustainable resource development.