Today is Earth Day, which gives heightened attention to the world's environmental threats. For this reason, we are taking a look at two ASX All Ords shares that are striving to make a positive impact on the planet.
For those investors feeling a little less altruistic, don't worry, the following companies have also provided big returns in the past 12 months. You might be surprised by how green these ASX shares have been.
Without further ado, here are two companies that are living proof being green can also reward shareholders.
Keeping the green dream alive in the ASX All Ords
Calix Ltd (ASX: CXL)
Although Calix is probably not a share in the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries (ASX: XAO) that is heard of frequently, its efforts in the decarbonisation industry are notable.
Leading with innovation, the Australian company is mostly recognised for its developments in calcination technology. This includes Calix's 'LEILAC' or Low Emissions Intensity Lime and Cement project — which seeks to drastically reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the cement and lime production industry.
Additionally, Calix is working with lithium miner Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) to use the same technology to improve the sustainability of lithium production.
While the company's revenues are relatively modest for its market capitalisation, investors have been getting excited about future prospects. This has fuelled an incredible performance for the Calix share price over the last year, rising 301%. That makes this green aspirant the ninth-best performing share in the ASX All Ords index over the 12-month timeframe.
Neometals Ltd (ASX: NMT)
While compact lithium-ion batteries promise a more electric future, fears have arisen over the years that the life cycle has not been thoroughly thought out. Already, the CSIRO is projecting more than 100,000 tonnes of lithium-ion battery waste in Australia by 2036.
To combat this, Neometals has developed a sustainable battery recycling process. On 28 March, the company announced the opening of a lithium-ion battery recycling facility in Hilchenbach, Germany. At capacity, the plant will process 10 tonnes of battery material per day.
Today, this ASX All Ords company received the necessary German operating permit to commence operations. Additionally, Neometals has plans to create larger versions of this technology pending further studies.
Finally, shareholders of Neometals have enjoyed market-beating returns in the last year. Shares in the battery recycler have surged 270%. Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up a mere 5.8% during this time.
