Harvard Case - Sterlite Copper: Business at What Cost?
"Sterlite Copper: Business at What Cost?" Harvard business case study is written by Tanuja Sharma, Roopal Gupta. It deals with the challenges in the field of Human Resource Management. The case study is 12 page(s) long and it was first published on : Aug 16, 2021
At Fern Fort University, we recommend that Sterlite Copper implement a comprehensive strategy focused on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Employee Engagement, and Operational Excellence. This strategy should prioritize transparency, community engagement, and sustainable practices to rebuild trust with stakeholders and ensure long-term business viability.
2. Background
Sterlite Copper, a subsidiary of Vedanta Resources, faced significant challenges due to its copper smelting operations in Tuticorin, India. The company faced accusations of environmental pollution, human rights violations, and community unrest, leading to protests, legal battles, and ultimately, the closure of the plant.
The case study highlights the conflict between Sterlite Copper's desire for profitability and its impact on the local community. The main protagonists are:
- Sterlite Copper: A company seeking to maximize profits through copper smelting operations.
- Local Community: Residents of Tuticorin who suffer the consequences of pollution and environmental degradation.
- Government: The Indian government, responsible for regulating the industry and protecting the environment.
3. Analysis of the Case Study
The case study can be analyzed through the lens of Stakeholder Theory, which emphasizes the importance of considering the interests of all stakeholders, not just shareholders. Sterlite Copper failed to adequately address the concerns of its local community, leading to a breakdown in trust and ultimately, the closure of its operations.
Key issues identified:
- Environmental Impact: The company's operations were responsible for significant air and water pollution, impacting the health and well-being of the local community.
- Lack of Transparency: Sterlite Copper was accused of failing to disclose information about its operations and environmental impact, further eroding trust.
- Community Engagement: The company failed to engage with the local community in a meaningful way, leading to resentment and mistrust.
- Ethical Considerations: The company's actions were perceived as prioritizing profit over the well-being of the community, raising ethical concerns.
4. Recommendations
To address these issues and rebuild trust with stakeholders, Sterlite Copper should implement the following recommendations:
1. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
- Develop a robust CSR framework: This framework should prioritize environmental sustainability, community development, and ethical business practices.
- Invest in pollution control technologies: Implement advanced technologies to minimize environmental impact and comply with all environmental regulations.
- Transparency and Communication: Be transparent about operations, environmental impact, and efforts to mitigate negative consequences. Establish open communication channels with the community and engage in regular dialogues.
- Community Engagement: Develop programs that directly benefit the local community, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic development.
- Partner with NGOs and local organizations: Collaborate with reputable organizations to enhance the effectiveness of CSR initiatives.
2. Employee Engagement:
- Focus on employee well-being: Implement programs that promote employee health, safety, and work-life balance.
- Invest in employee training and development: Provide opportunities for career advancement and skill development to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.
- Encourage open communication and feedback: Create a culture of open dialogue and feedback to address employee concerns and improve workplace conditions.
- Promote diversity and inclusion: Foster a diverse and inclusive workplace that values the contributions of all employees.
3. Operational Excellence:
- Implement lean manufacturing principles: Optimize production processes to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and minimize environmental impact.
- Adopt technology and analytics: Utilize data-driven decision-making to improve operational efficiency and environmental performance.
- Focus on continuous improvement: Implement a culture of continuous improvement to identify and address operational challenges.
5. Basis of Recommendations
These recommendations are based on the following considerations:
- Core competencies and consistency with mission: The recommendations align with the company's core competencies in mining and smelting while promoting ethical business practices and environmental sustainability.
- External customers and internal clients: The recommendations consider the needs of both external stakeholders (community, government) and internal stakeholders (employees).
- Competitors: By adopting best practices in CSR and operational excellence, Sterlite Copper can differentiate itself from competitors and gain a competitive advantage.
- Attractiveness ' quantitative measures: The recommendations are expected to lead to improved environmental performance, enhanced community relations, and increased employee engagement, ultimately contributing to long-term business viability.
6. Conclusion
By implementing a comprehensive strategy focused on CSR, employee engagement, and operational excellence, Sterlite Copper can rebuild trust with stakeholders, mitigate risks, and achieve sustainable growth. This approach requires a commitment to transparency, community engagement, and ethical business practices.
7. Discussion
Other alternatives not selected include:
- Continuing operations without change: This would likely lead to continued conflict and reputational damage.
- Selling the plant: This would resolve the immediate issue but could result in job losses and potential environmental risks from a new operator.
Risks and Key Assumptions:
- Implementation challenges: Implementing the recommended changes requires significant commitment and resources.
- Community resistance: The community may not be receptive to the company's efforts to rebuild trust.
- Regulatory changes: Changes in environmental regulations could impact the company's operations.
8. Next Steps
- Develop a detailed implementation plan: Outline specific actions, timelines, and resources required for each recommendation.
- Engage with stakeholders: Communicate the company's commitment to change and seek input from the community and government.
- Monitor progress and adjust strategies: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the implemented initiatives and make necessary adjustments.
By taking these steps, Sterlite Copper can demonstrate its commitment to responsible business practices and work towards a sustainable future for both the company and the community.
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Case Description
Since its inception in 1994, Sterlite Copper (Sterlite), a subsidiary of UK-based mining and metals conglomerate Vedanta Resources plc, had encountered many controversies. Sterlite's difficulties included accusations of manipulative compliance practices, legal issues arising out of land acquisition, gas leaks, and the depletion of the environment around its plant in Thoothukudi (also known as Tuticorin) in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Sterlite planned to expand and double its copper production, but various stakeholders raised concerns regarding alleged misconduct by the company and the adverse impact of its actions on the lives of the community surrounding the plant.
In May 2018, these agitations took a violent turn. The public protest led to the death of 13 citizens, and the events attracted negative media exposure. As Sterlite awaited Madras High Court's ruling which was due in August 2020, the possibility of the plant's permanent closure seemed likely.
While Sterlite Copper had been an organization of national importance, contributing to the GDP and creating employment, it suffered from adverse community opinion of allegedly being unethical while remaining in the realm of legality. The entire incident had Sterlite fighting more for its image than its environmental and legal positions. What had gone wrong for Sterlite by August 2020?
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