As the demand for paper products rises, the industry must take significant steps to foster a sustainable future for energy and the environment. Many mills still depend on fossil fuels as a primary source of energy which contributes to greenhouse emissions and climate change. 

Several industry experts from mills and suppliers have been invited to share their opinions with the delegates. They will discuss key strategies and initiatives to mitigate this challenge.

IPPTA has announced a cash award of Rs 5,000 for each paper that is selected and presented. And, the one that stands out from the rest wins the ‘Best Paper Award’ with a prize of Rs 10,000.

In the previous zonal seminar at Muzaffarnagar on 30 and 31 October, Bindlas Duplex and UNIDO bagged the ‘Best Paper Award’. Pankaj Aggarwal, CMD of Bindlas Duplex, and Rakesh Kumar Jain, technical expert at UNIDO presented the prospects of implementing zero liquid discharge to boost productivity and quality in Indian paper mills.

Given the use of chemicals deployed for pulping, it is crucial to implement energy-efficient technologies and processes to reduce overall energy consumption in pulp and paper manufacturing. Plus energy audits must be conducted at regular intervals to identify areas for improvement and invest in upgrades to machinery and equipment.

The delegates are expected to witness advanced technologies like co-generation or combined heat and power systems to maximise energy efficiency. This will promote to invest in renewable energy sources such as biomass, solar, wind, or hydropower to reduce
non-renewable resources.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a strategy undertaken by companies to not just grow profits but also to take an active and positive social role in the world around them. With ambitious carbon reduction goals, these companies should invest in technologies to minimise gas emissions and explore carbon offset programs and initiatives to achieve carbon neutrality.

These goals can be achieved as a collaborative effort between research institutions and industry partners to stay at the forefront of sustainable practices in the pulp and paper industry. And, investing in research and development can also drive innovation, leading to the creation of new technologies and processes that are more sustainable and efficient. 

By transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, addressing water usage and pollution, and promoting sustainable sourcing, the industry can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

IPPTA emphasises the need to develop a comprehensive and collaborative approach to meet the agenda of the AGM, which is fostering the future of energy and the environment in the pulp and paper industry.