Hindustan Zinc Launches 'Zinc Against Corrosion' Awareness Campaign Ahead of World Corrosion Awareness Day

Udaipur, April 23, 2025 — In the lead-up to World Corrosion Awareness Day (April 24), Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL), India’s only and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, has launched a week-long national campaign titled ‘Zinc Against Corrosion’, aimed at raising awareness about the widespread economic and structural impact of corrosion in India.

India Faces 5% Annual GDP Loss Due to Corrosion

Highlighting the scale of the issue, HZL estimates that corrosion causes India over 5% of its annual GDP, amounting to more than $100 billion in preventable losses. Corrosion — a natural but destructive process — weakens metals through chemical reactions with moisture, oxygen, pollutants, and salts, posing serious threats to infrastructure, transport, and industrial assets.

Zinc Galvanization: A Proven, Scalable Solution

At the heart of the campaign is zinc galvanization, promoted as an affordable and highly durable alternative to expensive materials like stainless steel. Galvanization applies a protective zinc coating that extends the life and performance of steel, particularly in coastal and high-humidity regions where corrosion risks are elevated.

National Drive with On-Ground Demonstrations and Surveys

As part of its outreach, HZL has initiated public demonstrations across Udaipur, including live displays comparing galvanized and non-galvanized two-wheelers. The rusting non-galvanized vehicle starkly contrasted with its zinc-coated counterpart, attracting significant public attention and sparking conversations around smart, corrosion-resistant choices.

The campaign also includes a digital media push, consumer education efforts, and a nationwide survey to understand public awareness and attitudes toward corrosion and galvanized products.

CEO Arun Misra Calls for Consumer Awareness

Commenting on the campaign, Hindustan Zinc CEO Arun Misra emphasized,

“Corrosion poses a silent but significant threat to our nation’s economy and infrastructure. Awareness is the first step toward change. While manufacturers must prioritize galvanization, consumers play a vital role by asking the right questions—especially when it comes to long-term investments like homes and vehicles.”

Global Corrosion Costs and India’s Urgency

World Corrosion Organization data shows global corrosion-related economic losses exceed $2.5 trillion annually, or 3–4% of industrial nations’ GDPs. In contrast, countries like Japan and Australia have cut losses to just 1.5%, largely through widespread zinc-coated steel adoption.

With 7,800 km of coastline and growing infrastructure demands, India is especially vulnerable. Studies suggest that up to 30% of corrosion-related damage can be prevented through better awareness and protection strategies.

Driving Change in the Automotive Sector

The social experiments underscored how over 70% of a vehicle’s body is steel, which, if left unprotected, corrodes rapidly. Indian automotive manufacturers are being encouraged to integrate galvanized Body-in-White (BIW) structures and zinc-coated components to significantly boost longevity and safety.

Hindustan Zinc’s week-long campaign continues through April 24, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to nationwide education, public engagement, and sustainable development through zinc technology.