KEY POINTS
- Harmony Gold won the gold award for water conservation at the 2024 Eco-Logic Awards.
- The company refurbished three wastewater treatment plants, increasing treatment capacity by 30 million litres per day.
- Harmony invested over R35 million to support local municipalities in water-scarce regions.
Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited has been awarded gold in the Water Conservation Category at the 2024 Eco-Logic Awards for its impactful work in refurbishing three municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The award highlights Harmony’s dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable water management, recognizing its efforts in supporting local municipalities that face challenges in maintaining essential infrastructure.
The Eco-Logic Awards, held annually, celebrate South Africa’s environmental champions for their contributions to the planet’s preservation. This year, Harmony was honored for its refurbishment of WWTPs in the Matjhabeng, Matlosana, and Merafong municipalities, improving local water treatment and enhancing the ecological environment around its mining operations.
Investment in water conservation enhances local community infrastructure
Access to clean and reliable water is critical for mining operations, community development, and economic growth, especially in water-scarce regions like those where Harmony operates. Due to the inability of local municipalities to maintain these state-owned plants, Harmony stepped in, investing more than R35 million to refurbish the facilities and increasing their sewage treatment capacity by 30 million litres per day.
Dr. Urishanie Govender, Harmony’s Chief Sustainability Officer, expressed pride in the recognition: “It is remarkable that a mining company has been recognized for a water stewardship award. This demonstrates our commitment to mining with purpose, where we create shared value for all our stakeholders.” The refurbishment projects were completed on time, on budget, and with zero injuries, ensuring both environmental and community benefits.
Harmony Gold’s commitment to environmental stewardship and ESG principles
The recognition at the Eco-Logic Awards underscores Harmony Gold’s broader commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. By investing in sustainable water solutions and supporting local infrastructure, Harmony not only enhances its mining operations but also improves living conditions for surrounding communities.
Harmony also extended its congratulations to Woolworths and South African Breweries (SAB), which won silver and bronze awards, respectively, in the Water Conservation Category. The company noted that platforms like the Eco-Logic Awards provide an important opportunity for businesses to showcase their contributions to sustainability and responsible environmental practices.
As Harmony continues to prioritize water conservation and environmental protection, its role in fostering a sustainable future remains a core aspect of its operational and community engagement strategies.
