TBB BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, MAR 17, 2023
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) on Friday announced the launch of a special initiative “Sound Management of waste Disposal (SMWD)”, as a part of their sustainability efforts towards the reduction and recycling of e-waste.
The company has issued a directive on E-Waste Management across their organization for effective management including timely disposal in line with the statutory requirements, said Dr. Aiswarya Biswal, Independent Director & Chairperson of BPCL’s Sustainability Development Committee, here today.
BPCL is working towards achieving ‘Zero Waste’ to landfill certification at all operating refineries and marketing locations by 2025, she added.
Improper disposal of waste is one of the critical challenges being faced globally, due to its inherent hazardous nature, which can affect the environment, animals, aquatic life, human beings etc. adversely.
Dr. Biswal further said that BPCL is conscious about the fact that waste generated from its refineries and other operations can cause harm to the environment and community. Thus, they have pledged to reduce the waste generated by its operations, implementing effective waste treatment techniques and directing it to disposal through authorized vendors.
In recent years, there is increased use and dependence on Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE), such as mobile phones, personal computers, laptops, servers, televisions, washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc. resulting in large quantities of e-Waste. Electrical & Electronic Equipment contain hazardous/toxic substances in their components. Improper disposal of EEE can lead to health risks and damage the environment.
BPCL firmly believes in unlocking the circularity of the resources and thus diverts e-waste and non-hazardous scrap for recycling and refurbishing through registered recyclers. During FY 2021-22, 2.57 tonnes of e-waste disposal completed in line with Pollution Control Board guidelines.
BPCL’s Research & Development (R&D) wing plays a pivotal role in innovating and creating new technologies, niche products, and future capabilities for business growth and sustainability. The R&D Department is undertaking various developmental activities in niche petrochemicals, waste management, energy-efficient refinery processes, greener chemistries, biofuels, green hydrogen and CO2 mitigation, , informed Dr. Biswal.