“India is laying the foundation for a greener, more prosperous future that benefits both present and future generations,” writes Jerome Gnanaprakasam Global Head – Engineering, Projects, EHS & Sustainability.

As a Country, progress in advancing environmental initiatives reflects a holistic approach that integrates economic development with environmental sustainability and social equity. As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India faces immense pressure to balance economic development with environmental conservation. By harnessing the power of policy reforms, encouraging clean and renewable energy, enhancing water management, embracing circular economy principles, building climate resilience, sustainable urban development and promoting community participation, India is laying the foundation for a greener, more prosperous future that benefits both present and future generations. This year, the World Environment Day campaign focuses on “Land Restoration, Desertification & Drought resilience”. We are #GenerationRestoration

We as an organisation, will create value for all our stakeholders in a manner that respects our natural environment and serves the best interests of the communities in which we live and work. As a pharmaceutical manufacturer, we recognise the challenges of reducing the environmental footprint generated by our operations. The increased demand for pharmaceutical products results in higher resource consumption to meet the needs of patients. As part of our commitment to environment stewardship, we are focusing on maximizing renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions in the entire value chain and be a water-positive company. Thus, minimizing our impact on the environment and contributing to #Generation Restoration.

Our focus is on the following actions:
· Energy conservation: Reducing use of energy where possible and increasing energy efficiency
· Energy transition: Shifting to low-carbon / biomass fuels
· Energy Mix: Maximizing renewable power through rooftop solar, PPA’s, JV’s, Cogen with biomass, ISTS etc.
· Value Chain – We are increasingly transitioning from air to sea transport & improving packaging to optimise shipments
· Water Stewardship – Our aim is to minimize of our freshwater withdrawal
a. Reduction in freshwater consumption: Exploring use of desalinated water
b. Alternative sources of water: Using treated grey water
c. Effective use of recycle and reuse of treated water: Treating the wastewater generated in the premises with latest or energy efficient “Zero Liquid Discharge Facilities” and reusing it for utilities
d. Rainwater harvesting: Harnessing the rainwater in our premises

Our sustainable performance for FY 24 can be accessed on our website www.drreddys.com

We focus on Green Building in addition on sustainable practices in manufacturing
We are continuously increasing the adoption of green factory buildings to maintain better resource efficiency in our premises and well-being. As on date we have 7 sites certified as green buildings under IGBC.

Supporting Biodiversity

In September 2023, at the World Economic Forum (WEF) – Sustainable Development Impact Meetings (SDIM) 2023, we have taken pledge to conserve, restore and grow forests, contributing to 1t.org’s restoration efforts. The integrated plantation initiative covering 2,900 hectares, encompassing mangrove, agroforestry, and bund plantations, offers a comprehensive approach that benefits both nature and the climate.

Exploring Sustainable technologies

We are working with various agencies in adopting new technologies across the value chain for continuous improvement in environmental performance. This includes digitalisation of ETP, use of HHO gas in boilers to improve fuel combustion efficiency, Thermic fluid sludge drier etc.