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Ans:1) Reliance Industries and Water Resource:

Reliance Industries is a conglomerate with interests in diverse industries including


petrochemicals, refining, telecommunications, and retail. Water is a critical resource for its
operations, especially in manufacturing and refining units.

Water Related Risks:

• Resource Scarcity: RIL could face risks from potential shortages of water due to
factors like changing climate patterns or local water stress.
• Regulatory Compliance: Complying with water quality and usage regulations is vital.
Violations can lead to fines, legal problems, and damage to the company's
reputation.
• Operational Disruption: Water is essential for various processes within RIL's facilities.
Any disruption in water supply can affect production schedules and overall
operational efficiency.

Opportunities:

• Efficiency Improvements: Implementing water-saving technologies and practices can


lead to operational cost savings and increased resource efficiency.
• Innovation and Technology: Developing and adopting innovative water management
technologies can not only reduce consumption but also position the company as a
leader in sustainable practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrating a commitment to responsible water
management can enhance relationships with regulators, local communities, and
customers.

RIL's Approach to Water Related Issues:

• Water Use Efficiency: RIL likely employs measures to optimize water usage through
recycling, reusing, and minimizing wastage in its operations.
• Water Treatment and Quality: Ensuring that water discharged from its operations
meets or exceeds regulatory standards is crucial to minimize negative environmental
impacts.
• Technological Innovation: RIL may invest in research and development to develop
and implement cutting-edge technologies for water conservation and management.
• Water Use Efficiency and Conservation:
• Technology Adoption: RIL may invest in advanced technologies for water treatment
and recycling to maximize the use of available water resources.
• Process Optimization: The company might continuously review and refine its
processes to minimize water consumption without compromising productivity.
• Waste Water Treatment and Discharge:
• Compliance with Standards: RIL is likely committed to treating wastewater to meet
or exceed regulatory requirements before discharge to minimize environmental
impact.
• Continuous Monitoring: Regular monitoring and testing of water quality to ensure
compliance with local and international standards.
• Community Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration:
• Local Community Projects: RIL may engage with local communities to understand
their water needs and concerns. This could involve community-based water projects
aimed at improving access and quality.
• Collaboration with NGOs and Authorities: Partnering with non-governmental
organizations (NGOs) and local authorities to address water-related issues in
neighboring communities.
• Risk Assessment and Management:
• Supply Chain Assessment: RIL might conduct assessments to identify water-related
risks within its supply chain, particularly in areas where water scarcity or quality
issues are prevalent.
• Technology and Innovation:
• Research and Development: RIL may invest in R&D efforts focused on water
management technologies to stay at the forefront of sustainable practices.
• Transparency and Reporting:
• Public Disclosure: The company is likely to provide detailed information about its
water management practices in its annual sustainability reports, demonstrating
transparency and accountability.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): RIL may track and report key metrics related to
water use, conservation, and quality.
• Long-Term Planning and Investment:
• Sustainable Infrastructure: RIL might invest in infrastructure and technologies that
support long-term sustainable water management.
• Example:
1. Mission Paani, pivoted to Mission Swachhta Aur Paani. Stories of water conservation,
hygiene and sanitation took centre stage throughout the season, focusing on the
great precedence being set by the North-eastern states. These stories were
amplified across our TV, Digital and Social media platforms. The initiative upheld the
cause of inclusive sanitation where everyone has access to clean toilets, culminating
with an 8-hour long telethon on World Toilet Day to mobilise Indians for better
sanitation.
2. Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai was a
momentous occasion for the brand as it witnessed the launch of the most innovative
fabric on the runway, R|Elan™ EcoGold with CiClO®. The special technology infused
in the fabric makes it bio-mimic biodegradation process and hence a potential
solution to reduce the cycle of waste accumulation in landfills, soil, wastewater, and
oceans.
3. Rural Water Supply (RWS) Catering the needs of drinking water, various renovation
works have been taken-up in Bhairavapalem village. Two Micro Filters of capacity
1,000 lit/hr have been installed this year to ensure adequate availability of potable
water.
4. Water RF (Reliance Foundation) works to improve access and availability of drinking
water while also ensuring visible presence of irrigation and ground water. 12,000
households have been ensured clean drinking water availability round the year
which is sustained. 120+ hand pumps/ submersible pumps repaired/installed in
project villages of Shahdol & Kotma which will provide drinking water to over 2,000
households.
5. Electrolyser Giga Factory Reliance is among the largest global producers of Grey
Hydrogen. The Company has partnered with Stiesdal to reduce costs and
commercialise their Pressurised Alkaline Electrolyser technology. Reliance will
leverage its complementary skills in engineering, operations, seawater desalination,
digital twin expertise, and indigenous balance of plants to complement its partner’s
technological innovation in stack manufacturing, enabling the delivery of Green
Hydrogen at the lowest cost.
6. Lakmé Fashion Week collaborated with FDCI to achieve carbon neutrality by
implementing sustainable practices. These initiatives included distributing reusable
water bottles to the entire event crew, which resulted in saving up to 15,000 single-
use plastic bottles and 1500+ litres of water.
7. Improving Nutrition Security: RF has initiated distribution of spirulina laddoos to
severe and moderately acute malnourished children and provided nearly 22 crore
litres of drinking water annually through Piped Water Supply (PWS). This has led to a
13% decline in diarrhoea cases and 44% decline in cholera cases.
8. The Samruddha Gaon Spardha project, implemented by Paani Foundation in
Maharashtra. The focus was on implementing measures to conserve water resources
and improve water management practices, improved soil and water conservation,
water management, increasing green cover, and restoring soil quality. The emphasis
was on implementing measures to improve the overall health of the soil and
increase its fertility while addressing water management challenges as well as
institutionalization of practices that support sustainable agriculture. Reliance
Foundation’s support to Paani Foundation is a step towards the intersection of
Sustainable Development.

Ans:2) Reliance Group of Companies continually reviews corporate governance best


practices to ensure that they reflect global developments. It takes feedback into account, in
its periodic reviews of the guidelines to ensure their continuing relevance, effectiveness and
responsiveness to the needs of local and international investors and other stakeholders. The
Code of Conduct(s) and other Policies adopted by the Reliance Group Companies are given
here.

1. Values and Commitments


2. Code of Ethics
3. Business Policies
4. Ethics Management

5. Prevention of Sexual Harassment


6. Policy on Insider Trading
Values and Commitments Introduction Every significant management decision has ethical
value dimensions. Managing ethics is particularly relevant for Reliance Group Companies
today because it is critical to understand and manage highly diverse values in the workplace.
Attention to business ethics is critical during times of fundamental change - times much like
those faced now by businesses like ours.To that end, Reliance Group Companies’ Values and
Commitments are presented here. These should be used to guide our actions in business
conduct.
Ethics and Values at Reliance Group Companies Background at Reliance Group Companies,
the issue of ethics is simple: it is a simple process that involves defining what is right or
wrong, and then doing the right thing. Ethics Management at Reliance Group Companies is
about values and associated behaviours. It is a process of defining values and ensuring that
corporate and individual employee behaviours epitomize those values.
Honesty: We are committed to be truthful in all our actions. We strive to be honest and
forthright with one another and with all our stakeholders.
Integrity: Reliance Group Companies insists on honesty, integrity and fairness in all aspects
of its business and expects the same in its relationships with all those with it does business.
There exists a clear vision and picture of integrity throughout RELIANCE GROUP Companies.
Our reward and promotion systems are aligned with this vision of integrity.
Policy on Code of Ethics Background Reliance Group Companies’ Code of Ethics is in
alignment with its values and commitments. The essence of this code is that each employee
should conduct the Company’s business in a way that upholds its values and commitments.
Respect We are committed to treat everyone fairly and with respect and dignity. We
appreciate and value the skills, strengths, and perspectives of our diverse workforce. We
request the uniqueness of each employee. We believe that each employee makes a
meaningful contribution in Reliance Group Companies’ success.
This code expects every employee to conduct business with integrity, in compliance with
applicable laws, and in a manner that excludes consideration of direct or indirect personal
advantage / gains. It is the individual responsibility of each one of Reliance Group
Companies’ employee to ensure that all of us are aware of these values, commitments, and
procedures, and behave in accordance with the spirit as well as the letter of this code.
Reliance Group Companies recognize that it is vital that the behaviour of its employees
matches the high intentions and values. Hence, adherence to all the elements of this code
and the accompanying principles and procedures is necessary. The principles and
procedures in this Code of Ethics apply to all material transactions, large or small, and
describe the conduct expected from every Reliance Group Companies’ employee.
Employees are expected to provide truthful, accurate and complete information about
certain facts, transactions, and relationships that may have bearing on issues related to
conflicts of interests. They are expected to provide details about these facts, transactions
and relationships to provide details about these facts, transactions and relationships
irrespective of their assessment of whether a conflict of interest exists. Disclosure forms
seeking such information will be made available to employees for submitting it in a
confidential manner to the Ethics Office.
Transparency: Reliance Group Companies and all its employees undertake to conduct all
the business transactions and take all decisions which are relevant to their function, in a
transparent and reasoned manner keeping in mind, the established norms of confidentiality
and secrecy which are necessary to protect the business and competitive interests of
Reliance Group Companies.
Employees are expected to maintain business secrecy and confidentiality by ensuring that
inside information policy is implemented. For instance, employees should not share with
others any information that they may come to acquire during the process of closed-door
discussions with other employees/outsiders.
Data Privacy Policy
By entering this website, the visitor consents to the terms of this policy. By submitting
his/her Information to RIL, the visitor will be treated as having given his/her permission for
processing the same in a manner provided in this policy.
Data transmitted or stored electronically are the assets of the Company requiring
protection. Each data user throughout the company is responsible for compliance with the
standards and related procedures with reference to safeguarding such data. Employees who
handle particularly sensitive inside information, and who may not have the background to
understand the legal and corporate implications of the misuse of such information, should
periodically discuss with the Ethics Office the implications of this policy. If during
employment in Reliance Group Companies employees have developed any patent, know
how, invention, or process or if they have been entrusted in preparation of any
market/other research report, the same is prohibited from being used outside the company.

Both the Code of Conduct and the Data Privacy policy aim to create a responsible and
ethical corporate culture. The Code of Conduct sets the tone for ethical behaviours and
integrity, ensuring that employees act in a manner that upholds the company's reputation
and trustworthiness. On the other hand, the Data Privacy policy safeguards individuals'
rights and privacy, demonstrating the company's commitment to protecting sensitive
information. Both policies contribute to maintaining the company's credibility, trust, and
compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Ans 3 a) Pollution is indeed a pressing global issue, and it's often intertwined with the
pursuit of economic growth and social progress. While economic development is essential
for improving living standards and achieving social well-being, it should not come at the
expense of the environment and public health.
Clean air and water are fundamental human rights, as recognized by various international
declarations and conventions. Access to a healthy environment is indispensable for
individuals to lead a dignified life, free from preventable health risks associated with
pollution. When pollution levels are high, it jeopardizes these basic rights, leading to
adverse effects on physical and mental health, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Striking a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability is
imperative. It's possible to foster growth and prosperity while implementing policies and
practices that mitigate pollution. This requires a concerted effort from governments,
industries, communities, and individuals alike.
Yes, pollution is considered an ethical concern that extends to consumers as well. Here are
several reasons why:

• Contribution to the Problem: Consumers play a significant role in generating


pollution through their choices and behaviours. This includes purchasing products
with excessive packaging, using energy-intensive appliances, and driving vehicles
with high emissions.
• Awareness and Education: Consumers have a responsibility to be informed about the
environmental impact of their consumption habits. Understanding the consequences
of their choices empowers individuals to make more sustainable decisions.
• Market Demand and Influence: Consumer demand heavily influences the production
and availability of goods and services. By choosing eco-friendly products and
supporting companies with sustainable practices, consumers can drive market trends
towards more environmentally responsible options.
• Advocacy and Pressure: Consumers have the collective power to advocate for
stricter environmental regulations and policies. Through grassroots movements,
petitions, and consumer activism, they can put pressure on businesses and
governments to adopt more sustainable practices.
• Resource Conservation: Responsible consumption can reduce the demand for raw
materials and energy, ultimately helping to conserve natural resources. This
contributes to the long-term sustainability of the planet.
• Social Responsibility and Interconnectedness: Recognizing the interconnectedness of
the global community, consumers understand that their actions have repercussions
beyond their immediate surroundings. This sense of social responsibility extends to
minimizing harm to the environment.
• Moral Duty to Future Generations: Taking steps to reduce pollution reflects an
ethical commitment to safeguarding the well-being and quality of life for future
generations. It acknowledges the importance of leaving a habitable planet for those
who come after us.
• Alignment with Personal Values: Many individuals value environmental stewardship
as an integral part of their personal ethics and moral beliefs. They feel a
responsibility to align their actions with these values.
Ultimately, addressing pollution requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including
individuals, businesses, and governments. Consumers play a vital role in this effort by
making informed choices and supporting sustainable practices, thereby contributing to a
cleaner, healthier planet.

Ans 3b) Certainly, here are two common ethical dilemmas that companies may face when
trying to reduce their pollution levels:

Cost-Benefit Trade-off:
• Dilemma: One significant ethical dilemma for companies trying to reduce pollution is
the cost-benefit trade-off. Implementing environmentally friendly technologies or
practices often comes with a financial investment. This can include the cost of
researching and developing new technologies, retrofitting existing infrastructure, or
transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Ethical Considerations:
• Beneficence vs. Cost Constraints: On one hand, companies have an ethical
responsibility to act in a way that benefits society and the environment by reducing
pollution. This principle of beneficence urges them to make choices that promote
the greater good. On the other hand, they also have a fiduciary duty to shareholders
and stakeholders to manage costs efficiently and ensure profitability.
• Long-term vs. Short-term Perspective: Companies may face the ethical dilemma of
balancing short-term financial impacts with long-term environmental benefits.
Investing in pollution reduction measures may lead to immediate financial burdens,
potentially affecting profits in the short term. However, in the long run, these efforts
may lead to improved environmental sustainability and reputation, which can
benefit the company.
Supply Chain and Outsourcing Issues:
• Dilemma: Many companies have complex global supply chains. They may face ethical
dilemmas when trying to reduce pollution levels in these supply chains, especially
when operating in regions with lax environmental regulations. The dilemma arises
when companies must decide whether to enforce stringent environmental standards
on their suppliers, which may increase costs for those suppliers and potentially lead
to job losses in certain regions.
• Ethical Considerations:
• Environmental Responsibility vs. Economic Stability: Companies may grapple with
the tension between their environmental responsibility to reduce pollution and their
concern for the economic stability of their suppliers. Pushing for stringent
environmental standards could potentially lead to economic hardships for suppliers
and their communities.
• Transparency and Accountability: Companies must decide how transparent they
want to be about their supply chain practices. Being transparent about supplier
environmental compliance may lead to better accountability, but it could also
expose the company to potential risks, such as reputational damage or supply chain
disruptions.
In both dilemmas, companies must carefully weigh their environmental responsibilities
against financial considerations, while also considering the potential impacts on
stakeholders, including employees, shareholders, and the communities in which they
operate. Finding a balance between ethical obligations, financial viability, and stakeholder
interests is a complex challenge for companies striving to reduce pollution levels.

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