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GMA is proud to recognize NMDC Energy as the 2026 GMA Sustainability Champion, acknowledging their commitment to advancing more sustainable practices in abrasive blasting and the responsible management of used garnet.
The award was recently presented to the NMDC Energy team by GMA Group CEO Stephan Kirsch recognizing the company’s leadership and continued focus on improving the environmental performance of its operations.
Now in their second year, the GMA Sustainability Awards recognize customers and partners around the world who are making measurable contributions to more sustainable abrasive blasting and waterjet cutting practices. The awards highlight initiatives ranging from garnet recovery and recycling to improvements in resource efficiency and the integration of sustainability into everyday operations.
Recognizing practical action
As a major Engineering, Procurement and Construction company serving the energy sector, NMDC Energy operates across complex projects where abrasive blasting forms an important part of surface preparation activities. The company has identified abrasive recycling as an opportunity to improve resource efficiency and reduce industrial waste as part of its broader sustainability approach.
This approach aligns closely with GMA’s focus on extending the lifecycle of garnet through recovery and reprocessing. GMA’s Garnet Return Program enables participating customers to return used garnet from abrasive blasting and waterjet cutting operations for reprocessing, helping divert material from landfill and make better use of the resources already in circulation.
“The Sustainability Champion Award recognizes customers who are turning sustainability commitments into practical action. NMDC Energy’s focus on garnet recovery and more responsible resource management demonstrates what can be achieved when sustainability is considered as part of day-to-day operations. We are pleased to recognize NMDC’s efforts and look forward to continuing to work together to build on this progress.”
Stephan Kirsch
CEO, GMA Group
Building a more circular approach
NMDC Energy has identified abrasive recycling as part of its efforts to advance circular economy principles within its operations. Its 2025 Integrated Report highlights the transition from a linear model of abrasive consumption towards recycling, with the aim of reducing waste sent to landfill while delivering environmental and operational benefits.
This commitment was further showcased during the award ceremony, where Ajay Thanki, Regional Business Development Manager at GMA Middle East, delivered a compelling presentation on GMA’s vision for a circular economy in the abrasive blasting industry.
He highlighted how recovering, recycling, and reprocessing spent garnet can transform a traditionally linear consumption model into a more sustainable and resource-efficient cycle.
Ajay emphasized that abrasive recycling is not simply a waste reduction initiative, but a strategic approach that helps conserve natural resources, minimize landfill dependency, lower environmental impact, and create lasting value for customers. His presentation underscored GMA’s commitment to driving industry-wide change through innovation, collaboration, and responsible resource stewardship.
For GMA, this collaboration is an important part of creating a more sustainable lifecycle for garnet — from responsible mining and efficient use through to recovery and reprocessing. GMA continues to invest in processes and technologies designed to reduce landfill, conserve resources and extend the value of every grain of garnet mined.
“Our work with NMDC Energy demonstrates the value of collaboration in developing practical solutions for used garnet. By looking at how garnet is managed beyond its initial use, we can help reduce waste while supporting more efficient and sustainable blasting operations. It is encouraging to see NMDC Energy embracing this approach, and we are proud to recognize them as our 2026 Sustainability Champion. ”
Soni John
General Manager, GMA Middle East
A shared commitment to sustainable progress
Sustainability is embedded within NMDC Energy’s broader operations, with the company focusing on areas including energy efficiency, waste management, environmental protection and the transition towards more circular use of resources.
The GMA Sustainability Champion Award recognizes this broader commitment alongside the practical steps being taken to improve the way abrasive materials are managed.
“Sustainability is an important part of how we operate and how we continue to improve our environmental performance,” said Eng. Amjad Abdul Shukoor, Chief Performance and Resilience Officer, NMDC Energy.
“Working with partners such as GMA enables us to identify practical opportunities to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency and support a more circular economy approach to our operations. We are proud to receive the 2026 GMA Sustainability Champion Award and look forward to continuing this work together.”
Eng. Amjad Abdul Shukoor
Chief Performance and Resilience Officer, NMDC Energy
The GMA Sustainability Awards form part of GMA’s long-term commitment to more sustainable abrasive blasting and waterjet cutting industries. By recognizing customers and partners taking practical action, the program aims to share progress, encourage collaboration and support the wider adoption of responsible garnet recovery and recycling practices.