Innovation

Vardhman Group is making significant strides in water management and sustainability, aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The company employs a multi-faceted approach to address water consumption and environmental impact.

Vardhman recognizes the importance of water in its production processes and non-process activities. Through technology upgrades, conservation initiatives, and rainwater harvesting, the company ensures the continual availability of water for its business activities and provides potable water to neighboring communities. This not only supports UN SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by reducing water consumption but also contributes to social, economic, and environmental prosperity in the surrounding areas.

The company has implemented innovative solutions in wastewater management, with the installation of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), including Zero Liquid Discharge units. This commitment aligns with UN SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by integrating technology to enhance water treatment capacity and accommodate production growth sustainably. Their focus on minimizing water waste and using recycled water aligns with UN SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) promoting sustainable production patterns.

Vardhman goes beyond its individual efforts by engaging in collaborative partnerships. For instance, the India Water Partnership with GAP and cKinetics focuses on reducing water-related environmental impacts across the textile industry, aligning with UN SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The company's collaborations extend to international initiatives like the Inditex Care for Water Program, Clean by Design, and CO2 Reduction Program, showcasing a global commitment to sustainability.

In conclusion, Vardhman Group's innovative solutions, encompassing technology, collaborations, and community engagement, contribute significantly to achieving UN SDGs, particularly in clean water, industry innovation, and global partnerships for a better world.

Inspiration

Vice President of Vardhman Mr. Ajay Verma mentioned:

"Sustainability at this particular moment and in the last 4 years has become of the utmost importance, we are improving our sustainability cells, and strengthening our sustainability cells, everyone in Vardhaman today talks about sustainability, whenever we work on a new project the first thing we talk about is sustainability, it's of much importance and requirement of today"

He also talked about what makes the company focused on freshwater conservation as he mentioned:
"Now water is everybody's concern, everyone in the organization understands that if the textile industry has to survive it has to work on sustainability." "Being a customer-oriented firm as today's customer is very much focused on sustainability, the brands to which we supply fabric, brands ask for sustainability as they all are linked to sustainability and to ensure the same we also make ourselves linked with sustainability"

In all, he mentioned that sustainability has become the most focused area today as customers demand it and it is a requirement of today.

Overall impact

Vardhman Group's innovative water management strategies have demonstrated both short-term and long-term effects, positioning the company as a trailblazer in sustainable practices. The implementation of technology upgrades, conservation initiatives, and rainwater harvesting has led to a substantial 20% reduction in freshwater consumption per unit of production across spinning, weaving, and fabric processing divisions in the short term, as evidenced by the company's reports spanning the last three years.

In terms of wastewater management, the installation of 9 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and 4 Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), including 3 Zero Liquid Discharge units, has showcased immediate impacts. This investment resulted in a commendable 25% increase in water treatment capacity, providing scalability for production growth. The Effluent Treatment Plant at Vardhman Fabrics, Budhni, achieved an impressive 99% overall water recovery through Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Multiple Effect Evaporation (MEE), contributing to a notable short-term reduction in water discharge. STPs at their units treat domestic wastewater generated from the plant, canteens, colonies, and hostels for non-process purposes. Currently, they treat 0.95 million KL/annum of sewage water in their STPS, thereby saving 0.91 million KL/annum of groundwater. Treated sewage water is reused for gardening and flushing.

Looking at the long-term effects, collaborations like the India Water Partnership with GAP and cKinetics have yielded sustained results. Over the years, this partnership has led to a substantial 15% reduction in water-related environmental impacts across the textile industry, indicating the longevity and effectiveness of Vardhman's commitment to sustainable water practices.

In conclusion, Vardhman Group water management innovations have not only shown immediate positive impacts but have also laid a foundation for lasting sustainability, as reflected in both short-term and long-term achievements.

Business benefit

Vardhman Group's water management isn't just about saving water, it's about strategic innovation with far-reaching benefits. Their efforts to reduce freshwater consumption through process upgrades and wastewater treatment plants lead to direct cost savings. Recycling treated water back into processes further minimizes reliance on external sources, bringing down water bills and long-term operational expenses. These efforts not only benefit the company's bottom line but also demonstrate environmental leadership, attracting eco-conscious consumers and investors.

Vardhman's commitment extends beyond its own walls. Partnerships like the India Water Partnership and Inditex Care for Water Program ensure not only reduced water risk for the company but also provide sustainable water access to surrounding communities. This builds goodwill, fosters positive relationships with stakeholders, and enhances Vardhman's brand image as a responsible corporate citizen. Additionally, providing clean water and sanitation creates a healthier work environment for employees, potentially boosting morale and retention.

In essence, Vardhman's water innovation is a win-win-win. It saves money, strengthens the company's brand, and builds trust with local communities. By demonstrating that responsible water management can be a driver for sustainable business growth, Vardhman sets a powerful example for other corporations to follow.

Social and environmental benefit

For years, Vardhman Group has been quietly revolutionizing water management in India. They've woven a tapestry of innovation, weaving together process improvements, technology investments, and employee education to reduce freshwater consumption significantly. This commitment to sustainability isn't confined to their factory walls; it spills over into neighboring communities, nurtured by partnerships like the India Water Partnership with GAP.

9 Sewage Treatment Plants and 4 Effluent Treatment Plants, 3 of them boasting Zero Liquid Discharge, meticulously purifying used water. This treated water finds new life, recycled and reused through RO & MEE systems, reducing dependence on freshwater. But Vardhman knows true impact requires collaboration. The India Water Partnership, a joint effort with GAP, studied 15 top textile facilities to identify water-saving potential, benefitting the entire industry. Even closer to home, 51 villages around their factories are now part of a water security project, promising sustainable access to this precious resource.

Vardhman's story isn't just about numbers and technology and people. Employees at all levels are empowered to conserve water. This dedication shines through in partnerships like Clean by Design, where best practices for chemical use and wastewater treatment are shared, and the Carbon Leadership Program, where Vardhman collaborates with Ralph Lauren to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Vardhman Group's water management strategy is a masterpiece, beautifully blending innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. It's a testament to the power of collective action, a blueprint for a future where businesses thrive alongside healthy environments and thriving communities. As they continue to write their story, one drop at a time, Vardhman reminds us that sustainability isn't just a goal, it's a journey woven into the very fabric of our existence.

Interview

Mr. Ajay Verma, Vice President (Engg.)

Watch video