KIOCL Strengthens Sustainable Mining and Ethical Governance

KIOCL Strengthens Sustainable Mining and Ethical Governance: BRSR FY 2024–25

KIOCL is a Mini Ratna Category-I PSU under the Ministry of Steel, Government of India, and has released its BRSR for FY 2024-25. The report illustrates the progress made by KIOCL on sustainability, ethical business conduct, and development across operations.

Environmental Performance

KIOCL is engaged in the production and exporting of iron ore pellets. During FY 2024–25, the company used 2.17 million GJ of energy out of which 50,151 GJ were from renewable sources. It also operates a 6.4 MW solar power plant and procures 3.05 million units of wind energy.

KIOCL also gives high importance to saving water. The company used 475,262 kilolitres, almost 50% less than the previous year through recycling and reuse. KIOCL implemented the ZLD mechanism using advanced membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology in recycling 100% of treated water for process and greenbelt use.

In tune with its climate action objectives, the company was able to bring down GHG emissions to 1.56 lakh tonnes (Scope 1) and 37,833 tonnes - Scope 2 of CO₂ equivalent. Similarly, waste generation declined considerably to 270 tonnes with strict disposal and recycling through approved agencies.

Employee Welfare and Safety

KIOCL has 249 permanent staff and 801 workers, out of which 12.9% are women employees. The company provides all employees and workers with health and accident insurance, provident fund, and gratuity benefits. For the financial year 2024–25, the company reported zero fatalities.

The company provides training for all its employees and workers on safety, health and skill development. To keep safety standards high, KIOCL keeps conducting safety checks, medical examinations and emergency drills. The company also follows Rights of persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The company provides fair job opportunities for people with disabilities. Additionally, the firm also supports employees who take parental leave and ensures everyone gets back to their work smoothly, maintaining a 100% return and retention rate.

Governance and Ethics

KIOCL has a transparent system of governance. The company’s Board has approved policies relating to ESG, Code of Conduct, and the Whistle-Blower Policy. In line with Board direction, the three-tier ESG governance structure has been maintained. During the year, there were no incidents of corruption, data leaks or human right violations. KIOCL also follows international standards. When it comes to buying goods and services, it uses Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and MSTC online platforms to make all transactions transparent, fair, and accountable.

CSR and Community Development

Although no new projects were taken up during FY 2024–25 due to setoffs carried forward from the previous years, KIOCL continues to focus on community welfare in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Through its online portal and the CPGRAMS portal, the company has kept open an effective grievance redressal mechanism for communities, which helps in maintaining transparency and accountability.

Environmental Initiatives

KIOCL is taking several steps to make its initiatives more ecofriendly. The company is recycling sewage water so it can reuse, reprocessing leftover iron ore fines to reduce waste and make better use of raw materials. It has also started using and ERP to reduce paperwork. Along with, KIOCL is working on to replace furnace oil with LNG in its pellet-making process. These efforts help the company use resources efficiently and move towards cleaner and more sustainable use of energy.  

Highlights

• Energy: 2.17 million GJ consumed; solar and wind initiatives installed

• Water: KIOCL used 475,262 KL of water and recycled all under ZLD system

• Emissions: Scope 1- The company emitted 1.56 lakh tonnes of carbon dioxide and 37,833 tonnes from Scope 2

• Workforce: KIOCL has 1,050+ employees and workers, with no accidents or deaths reported, all are 100% insured

• Waste: 270 tonnes generated; fully treated or recycled through authorized vendors

• Governance: Board-led ESG oversight, ISO-certified systems, no corruption or data breach

• CSR Focus on education, healthcare, and community development in CSR