AAKASHVANI.IN

Balconagar, 9th August 2025/ Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), India’s iconic aluminium producer and part of Vedanta Aluminium, is driving circular economy efforts by repurposing fly ash, a by-product of thermal power generation, into sustainable construction materials. The fly ash is being repurposed into bricks, which are being used under government schemes like the PM Awas Yojana, opening new avenues for sustainable supply chains in both rural and urban housing development. In line with national sustainability goals, BALCO supplies fly ash to more than 70 local brick manufacturing units, supporting eco-friendly brick production and enabling its utilisation in public infrastructure projects.

Fly ash bricks offer several advantages over traditional red bricks. They are lighter, have higher compressive strength, and exhibit better thermal insulation, making them ideal for modern, energy-efficient construction. Unlike red bricks, which require fertile topsoil and contribute to land degradation, fly ash bricks utilize recycled industrial material, thereby conserving natural resources and reducing environmental impact. This shift directly contributes to India’s circular economy goals by transforming waste into a sustainable resource, while also empowering local enterprises.

BALCO offers free-of-cost delivery of fly ash to brick manufacturers, helping neutralize input costs and enabling the production of eco-friendly, durable alternatives to conventional red bricks.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO & Director, BALCO, said,
“At BALCO, our focus on circularity is driven by both environmental stewardship and the opportunity to create inclusive growth in the regions we operate. By promoting the use of fly ash bricks, we are supporting the transition to greener construction practices while enabling local businesses to thrive. This is part of our long-term commitment to responsible resource management at our operations.”

BALCO’s fly ash utilization strategy is embedded within a broader vision for resource optimization. With 100% ash utilization, the company supplies ash to multiple sectors including cement, construction and road development. By channelling industrial waste into productive use across sectors, BALCO is benefitting both industry and environment.

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