In Hamilton, Canada, environmental concerns were an issue. Addressing this, the team took the lead in 1998 and has held onto it for more than 20 years, sharing the strength by partnering with other industries and community groups to become founding members of the Hamilton Industrial Environmental Association (HIEA). HIEA is a group of companies working closely with neighbors, community initiative groups and not-for-profit environmental sector organizations, as well as with representatives from the City authority and the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. HIEA includes 12 member companies and addresses critical issues facing Hamilton, such as climate change and its effects, sustainability and new growth. Over 20 years after being established, this association is still in existence and is fulfilling its role in protecting the environment, a true testament to our long-standing commitment to sustainability. For Birla Carbon and all HIEA members, community engagement is very important. HIEA has established a Community Advisory Panel, comprising representatives from local neighborhood associations, community advocacy groups and other caring citizens. Together, the Panel and HIEA exchange information, discuss environmental issues and further develop the association by expanding the dialogue between industry and the community.