Goals:
95% of waste to be diverted away from landfill by 2030
Driving Circularity and Resource Efficiency
At AEL, our waste-management approach is anchored in the principles of the circular economy and material efficiency, aimed at reducing environmental footprint while keeping materials in productive use for longer. Our strategy prioritises waste avoidance, minimisation, recovery, and regulatory compliance, supported by a structured avoid–reduce–reuse–recycle hierarchy across operations.
We operationalise this approach through regular waste and material-flow audits that identify priority waste streams, efficiency gaps, and opportunities for circular value creation. These insights inform time-bound action plans, measurable waste-reduction and recovery targets, continuous performance monitoring, and focussed investments in R&D. Employee awareness and training further embed responsible material use across the organisation.
91%
waste diverted from landfill due to reuse, recycling and recovery efforts
1.1+ lakh tonnes
of Copper slag, is utilised in cement production and road construction in the reporting year
We are committed to proper disposal and reduction in hazardous waste, supported by rigorous handling protocols, safe material alternatives, advanced segregation, and certified vendor-led treatment solutions.
Waste Management
AEL adopts a structured and compliant approach to waste management, guided by minimisation, circularity, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement. Waste streams are systematically identified, segregated, monitored, and managed through authorised channels, supported by strong governance, performance tracking, and employee awareness. Innovative waste utilisation practices convert waste into secondary resources, strengthening closed loop material systems across businesses.
Hazardous Waste Management
Hazardous waste is managed in a safe, compliant, and environmentally sound manner. Waste is identified, segregated, labelled, stored, and handled in line with applicable regulations and internal procedures, with a strong emphasis on source reduction and process optimisation. Disposal is undertaken only through authorised and licensed vendors, with full traceability from generation to end disposal.
Regulatory compliance is reinforced through monitoring, audits, and corrective action mechanisms, supported by targeted training for employees and contractors.
E-waste, biomedical waste, batteries, and ETP sludge are handled through authorised recyclers and treatment facilities, ensuring safe disposal in line with applicable regulations.
Non-Hazardous Waste Management
Non-hazardous waste is managed through segregation at source, reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal. Streams such as municipal waste, packaging, construction debris, and process residues are channelled to authorised recyclers and processors. Recycling and recovery of paper, plastics, metals, and inert waste are prioritised, alongside reuse within operations, where possible.
- Plastic waste: Managed in compliance with Plastic Waste Management Rules, including EPR obligations and initiatives to phase out single use plastics.
- Construction & demolition waste: Segregated and transferred to authorised facilities, with reuse of excavated earth and recycled aggregates prioritised.
Use of Copper Slag in Cement Production and Road Construction
At Kutch Copper Limited (KCL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited, circular economy principles are embedded into core smelting and refining operations. Copper slag, generated as a by-product during smelting, has been re-envisioned as a valuable secondary resource rather than industrial waste – supporting waste minimisation and resource efficiency.
Classified as a High Volume, Low Effect (HVLE) material, copper slag possesses high strength, density, and durability, enabling its safe and effective use across multiple industries. KCL has established robust controls across handling, testing, storage, and despatch, aligned with regulatory guidelines, to ensure quality assurance and environmental compliance.
Through structured partnerships with qualified off-takers, KCL has achieved 100% utilisation of copper slag, directing it into value-added applications such as cement and concrete, abrasives, bricks and blocks, supplementary cementitious material for clinker substitution, and high-strength road and rail infrastructure.
This initiative eliminates landfill disposal, conserves natural resources, and supports low-carbon construction, while demonstrating how high-volume industrial by-products can be seamlessly integrated into mainstream value chains. KCL's approach sets a scalable benchmark for waste-to-wealth transformation and circularity in the metals sector.
Zero Waste to Landfill
AEL is progressively pursuing Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) certification across operational locations, where feasible. This reflects a disciplined approach centred on waste minimisation, segregation, recycling, and recovery, with residual waste diverted from landfill through authorised and auditable pathways. Certified locations adhere to defined diversion thresholds supported by internal controls, periodic audits, and third-party verification, strengthening resource efficiency and long-term operational resilience.
All 7 of our airports – are certified for Zero Waste to Landfill.
There were no significant spills which occurred during the reporting period.
Progress Against Key Metrics and Targets
| Particulars | FY 2025-26 |
|---|---|
| Waste Generated (MT) | 3,46,659 |
| Waste Diverted from Landfill | 91% |
| Waste Intensity (MT per ₹ crore of revenue) | 6 |
Note: As the lifecycle of OB is governed by Mine Closure Regulations and Environmental Clearances rather than standard waste protocols, it is excluded from waste generation and reuse figures. The OB generated (~134 million m³ for FY 2024-25) shall be reclaimed in accordance with Mine Closure Plans.