CAIRO/MUMBAI, India — Birla Carbon was named the Pioneer Business for Sustainable Development 2018 at the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Business Opportunities for the Private Sector conference, which was held recently in Cairo. The company received the award in recognition of its efforts in the field of sustainable development and social responsibility.

Dr. Santrupt B Misra, Chief Executive Officer, Birla Carbon, commented, “As a leader in the carbon black industry, it is our constant focus, through innovation, to develop solutions that are sustainable not only for the business but for the environment in which we operate. This award is a recognition of our commitment to continue to be the pioneers of sustainable development in the carbon black industry, by living our purpose - Share the Strength.”

John Davidson, President, Europe and Africa region, Birla Carbon, said, "Birla Carbon has always endeavored to be the most respected, sustainable and dynamic global carbon black business. This award shows that we are not only on the right path but are also seen as a leader in this aspect.” He added, “It will be our responsibility to maintain this position and continue to work towards a sustainable tomorrow."

Five business member organizations from Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia and Denmark co-hosted the conference. It was the first regional Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) conference specifically for the private sector. Its aim was to get all relevant stakeholders to raise their awareness on the SDGs.

The Federation of Egyptian Industries/Environmental Compliance Office and Sustainable Development awarded 12 best member company cases out of 192 participants in the competition, representing concrete Sustainable Development Goals projects.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals address the main global challenges societies face across the globe towards 2030. The business community plays a central role in reaching the 17 goals. To fully benefit from this market potential, businesses must innovate, develop new technologies and services, and create new business models that are sustainable for climate, environment, and human beings.

Birla Carbon, Marietta, Georgia, is one of the world's largest manufacturers and suppliers of carbon black and a flagship business of the Aditya Birla Group. The company’s footprint extends across 12 countries with 16 manufacturing facilities.