“ESG Framework provides the essential tools to meet stakeholder expectations and ensures aligning operations with ethical practices,” said Mr. Atanu Bhowmick, Director In-Charge (DIC) while speaking in the inaugural session of Learn from Each Other (LEO) Workshop on ‘Environment, Society & Governance’ (ESG) held at the Gopabandhu Auditorium of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) on 13th November, 2024. The one-day workshop was attended by more than 60 participants from Bokaro Steel Limited, Bhilai Steel Plant, Durgapur Steel Plant, IISCO Steel Plant and RSP. Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR) with the additional charge of ED (Projects), Mr. Alok Verma, ED (Mines) with the additional charge of ED (Works) and Mr. D K Shetty, Head – Social & Ethical Compliance – Sustainability Services, South Asia Region, Bureau Veritas were also present on the dais. Many CGMs and Senior Officers of the plant were also present on the occasion.
Highlighting the importance of adopting best practices to drive meaningful change, the DIC further said, “Our shared vision of a sustainable future ensures that our business thrives, communities prosper, and the environment is preserved for future generations,” He encouraged all participants to actively contribute to RSP’s journey toward obtaining the Responsible Steel certification at the earliest. Mr. Bhowmick also inaugurated the implementation of the ESG Framework at RSP.
Mr. Misra in his address spoke on the evolution of the global economy from the agrarian 17th century to the industrial era in the 20th century and now to the technology-driven and ESG-focused 21st century. Tracing the journey from coal as a primary fuel to nuclear energy and the current emphasis on alternate energy, he stressed the growing importance of responsible business practices in industries.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Verma emphasised upon exploring innovative ways to reduce carbon footprint keeping in mind societal impact and sustainable growth. He also spoke on the importance of Efficient Waste Management, Effective Resource Management and ensuring bio-diversity for a responsible organisation.
Delivering a detailed overview of the ESG framework, Mr. Shetty discussed the importance of tracking organizational performance metrics to measure progress in ESG initiatives.
Ms. Rajashree Banerjee, CGM (HR-L&D) in her welcome address spoke about the significance of the ESG Framework for the organisation.
At the outset, the dignitaries lighted the ceremonial lamp to mark the inauguration of the workshop.Ms. Binita Tirkey, Manager (HR-L&D) coordinated the inaugural function.
Notably, during the daylong session Mr. Shetty and Ms. Ms. Rakhi Sen, GM(EMD), SAIL deliberated on different topics associated with ESG. An Action Plan was presented at the end of the day by the group of participants.