Sustainability awards for Indian cement companies

India’s most sustainable companies were recognised at the CII-ITC Sustainability Awards 2013 in New Delhi on 20 December 2013. The awards represent the CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development’s efforts to promote environmental awareness, good policy and develop sustainability practices. 23 Indian companies were in attendance to receive their awards, including representatives from Dalmia Cements Bharat Ltd, ACC Ltd, Ambuja Cement Ltd, Shree Cement Ltd and UltraTech Cement Ltd.

This applicant companies underwent a thorough evaluation process, which included an onsite assessment by CII-certified assessors totalling approximately 1000 man-hours per company over a period of six months.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Sachin Pilot, Minister for Corporate Affairs, noted the importance of tackling sustainability issues such as climate change and emphasised that sustainability practices must be built into the company ethos, with management responsible for driving the agenda. Furthermore, Mr YC Deveshwar, Chairman, Advisory Council, CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development, commented on the value of investing in sustainable business models and highlighted the role of the awards in encouraging companies to become sustainable and building environmental awareness.

The awards were presented to 23 winning companies. The Sustainability Prize, the second highest recognition and the highest received in 2013, was awarded to Tata Steel Ltd, ACC Ltd and SRF Ltd. The Commendation Certificate for Significant Achievement, the third level of recognition, was awarded to 13 companies including Ambuja Cements Ltd, Shree Cement Ltd and UltraTech Cement Ltd. Finally, the Commendation Certificate for Strong Commitment was awarded to seven companies including Dalmia Cements Bharat Ltd, Ambuja Cements Ltd (Maratha Cement Works) and Ambuja Cements Ltd (Bhatapara Unit).

Edited from various sources by Rosalie Starling

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/asia-pacific-rim/03012014/sustainability_awards_for_indian_cement_companies_556/