Chennai, Oct 4 (FN Agency) In a significant move towards sustainability, the coconut shell charcoal industry is embracing green technology, marking a new era of eco-friendly production. The Coconut Development Board (CDB) organized a seminar on “Prospects for Green Technology in Coconut Shell Charcoal Production” at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore on Thursday. A PIB release here said the event brought together over 100 manufacturers of coconut shell charcoal and activated carbon, all eager to adopt sustainable technologies in their production processes. The seminar, inaugurated by CDB Chairman Suba Nagarajan provided a platform for experts and industry leaders to discuss the future of the coconut shell charcoal industry. In his keynote address, Dr. B. Hanumantha Gowda, Chief Coconut Development Officer, emphasized the urgent need for green technologies in the sector.
The event showcased several cutting-edge, eco-friendly innovations developed in collaboration with leading research institutions, signaling the industry’s shift towards a greener future. Dr. K. Ravichandran, Joint Chief Environmental Engineer of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), presented the elevated pit technology, validated by Anna University, which offers a cleaner production method for charcoal. In addition, Mr. Thomas Antony, Managing Director of Jacobi Carbon, introduced the rotary kiln technology developed in collaboration with IIT Chennai, further enhancing sustainable production. Dr. Manju Tanwar and Mr. Srikanth Venkateshan from Organic Recycling Systems also presented their eco-friendly technology, validated by the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), demonstrating more efficient recycling processes. A highlight of the seminar was the presentation on Green Finance opportunities, delivered by Mr.Paramasivam, Assistant General Manager of SIDBI, outlining financing options for manufacturers transitioning to green technologies.
This initiative aims to reduce the environmental footprint of charcoal production while enhancing profitability. During the seminar, the CDB reiterated its commitment to sustainable development by offering project-based financial assistance of 25% of the total project cost for green ventures. This support is designed to encourage the adoption of clean technology in the coconut shell charcoal industry, aligning with global environmental goals and the principles of the circular economy. The event concluded with remarks from who commended the industry’s dedication to environmental sustainability and called for a collective effort towards greener production practices. The seminar successfully fostered collaboration among industry stakeholders, research institutions, and financial institutions, creating a roadmap for the widespread adoption of green technology in coconut shell charcoal production. This shift represents a key milestone in the industry’s journey towards a more sustainable, eco-friendly future.