With the launch of HCLTech’s Sustainability Report for 2024–25, now is the time to reflect on the company’s remarkable progress in embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations. The journey so far has been marked by ambitious targets, innovative initiatives and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact, both within the organisation and in the wider community.

Leading the way in energy efficiency

One of the most critical aspects of our sustainability strategy is energy management, particularly the transition to renewable energy sources. The IT sector is inherently energy-intensive, especially with the growing integration of AI and the extensive use of data centres. Anticipating these challenges, we have set ambitious yet pragmatic goals for energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption.

• In FY25, 34% of our energy requirements are being met from renewable sources
• We have made our first-ever equity investment in renewable energy through an Open Access – Group Captive arrangement
• Ongoing efforts are in place to accelerate progress towards even higher renewable energy usage

Water stewardship: Beyond compliance

We recognize the significant water footprint of the IT sector, largely due to the cooling needs of data centres. Our proactive approach has yielded outstanding results:

• In 2024–25, our water intensity was measured at just 10.2 litres per employee per day - 35% better than some of its largest peers
• This achievement is attributed to operational excellence and the dedication of the Global Workplace Services (GWS) team
• As AI deployment increases, so too will water consumption, and that is why we are committed to continuous improvement in this area

Community impact through water regeneration

This commitment to water stewardship and regeneration extends beyond our own operations. Through the HCLFoundation, we have regenerated 31 times more water than we consume, restoring over 107 billion litres of water in India over the past six years. This has included:

• Enhancing 3,200 acres of ecosystem value
• Restoring or creating 358 water structures

In 2023, CEO & Managing Director C Vijayakumar joined the CEO Water Mandate, a UN Global Compact and Pacific Institute program, to drive collective positive water impact in 100 priority river basins by 2030. We are championing this initiative in the Yamuna River basin, reflecting both organisational commitment and a deep local connection.

Fostering Innovation in Water Management

At the group level, HCL has gone further by fostering innovation in the global water ecosystem. In partnership with UpLink (World Economic Forum) and the Forum’s Food & Water Initiative, HCL Group has committed CHF 15 million over five years to the Aquapreneur initiative. In just three years:

• Three challenges have sourced 30 water-focused startups 
• CHF 5.4 million in non-dilutive funding has been provided
• These ventures have raised over $90 million in additional funding
• Notable impacts include SHAYP saving 7 billion litres and Kilimo saving 4.5 billion litres of water in 2024, with partnerships spanning Amazon, Intel, Microsoft and Pepsi

The Water Resilience Challenge, launched by HCL Group, offers funding and strategic support to early-stage startups building water resilience in the infrastructure, agri-food, technology and energy sectors.

Achieving zero waste to landfill

We have also made significant strides in waste management, handling hazardous e-waste, medical waste and non-hazardous solid waste from its campuses. In the past year:

• All Indian campuses achieved Platinum-certified Zero Waste to Landfill status, meaning 95% of solid waste is now diverted from landfills through reduction or recycling
• This milestone was reached five years ahead of industry targets, underscoring our commitment to circularity and the effectiveness of its GWS team

Investing in people

Our sustainability journey is equally focused on our people. We lead the industry in employee welfare investment, allocating 2.2% of our revenue to well-being initiatives. Highlights include:

• An industry-leading parental leave policy, with a 99.81% return-to-work rate post-leave
• Comprehensive healthcare initiatives, with primary healthcare and diagnostic centres across 60 campuses and locations in India
• Over 1,000 medical professionals provide services ranging from primary care to mental health support, emphasising preventive care and long-term well-being

The sustainability journey continues

As HCLTech celebrates 25 years since its listing on the Indian stock exchanges, its pioneering sustainability initiatives prove its visionary leadership and bold commitment to being ahead of the industry curve.

The journey continues, with each milestone reflecting our resolve to create lasting value for its people, communities and the planet.