In order to help the nation achieving the target of Net Zero, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited launched E-Waste Management Initiative. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) recently launched their special initiative, “Sound Management of Waste Disposal (SMWD),” as a positive step towards reducing and recycling e-waste. BPCL has committed to achieving Zero waste-to-landfill certification at all operating refineries and marketing sites by 2025.
Given that it is a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the second-largest Indian Oil Marketing Company, this move is going to play a significant role in addressing the waste generated in the country. As a Fortune Global 500 company, it may be able to persuade large and small corporations to implement waste-reduction measures that are harmful to the environment.
Why E-Waste Management is important for Net Zero?
In recent years, there has been an increased reliance on Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE), resulting in large amounts of e-Waste. These waste materials could contain valuable materials as well as hazardous/toxic substances. Improper disposal of the same could pose several health risks as well as environmental damage. As a result, improper e-waste disposal is one of the most serious issues confronting the world today.
BPCL has directed its operational refineries to address the waste generation issue after becoming aware of it. All of their refineries have been directed to reduce waste generation, implement effective waste treatment techniques, and dispose of it through authorised vendors.
BPCL stated that they are committed to “unlocking the circularity of resources.” As a result, they have decided to divert e-waste and non-hazardous scraps for recycling and refurbishment.
The oil marketing company’s R&D department has been critical in moving toward this climate action. They are well-known for innovating and developing new technologies, niche products, and future capabilities aimed at business growth and sustainability. The recent move appears to be promising in terms of setting an example for waste management and greener practices among niche petrochemicals.
The Petroleum Company is one of the country’s leading integrated energy companies, with a strong presence in both the upstream and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry. Their refineries in Mumbai, Kochi, and Bina have a combined refining capacity of approximately 35.3 MMTPA.
According to the Economic Times, the distribution network includes over 20,000 Energy Stations, 6,200 LPG distributorships, 733 Lubes distributorships, 123 POL storage locations, 54 LPG Bottling Plants, and four cross-country pipelines.
With such a large national network, incorporating environmental and social goals into their manufacturing cycle could help to establish and motivate a sustainable system. The company has devised a strategy to become a Net Zero Energy Company by 2040 as part of its numerous initiatives.
They have been collaborating with numerous communities and supporting numerous initiatives primarily related to environmental and water conservation. Bharat Petroleum’s vision is a lesson for global energy players on incorporating innovation and technology for a greener tomorrow, staying true to its core purpose of “Energizing Lives.”
What is Net Zero and why its important for Indian Economy?
Content Credit: The Logical India