Kolkata / New Delhi, Feb 22 (FN Bureau) Since the demand for paper is growing continuously, Indian Pulp & Paper Technical Association (IPPTA) has urged the industry players to take significant steps to take sustainable growth path that will secure future energy and environment. IPPTA is organising its 59th Annual General Meeting and annual seminar in Kolkata on the theme “Fostering the Future of Energy and Environment in Pulp & Paper Industry” on February 23 – 24, 2024, according to a media statement here on Thursday. The pulp & paper industry plays a significant role in the economy of a country. Presently there are more than 850 paper mills functioning all over the country, producing various types of papers such as printing and writing, packaging, tissue, newsprint, etc.
It is estimated that the total paper production in the country is more than 25 million tonnes/ annum. The size of the industry is estimated to be around INR 80,000 crores. The industry provides direct employment to about 0.5 million people and indirectly to around 1.5 million people. Since the demand for paper is growing continuously, IPPTA urges the industry players to take significant steps to take sustainable growth path that will secure future energy and environment. In the area of energy conservation, IPPTA urges the players to shift from traditional source of energy to renewable source of energy, adaptation of energy efficient technologies, undertaking of energy audits, setting target for carbon reductions and investing in R&D so that they can carry out their production in a most efficient manner while taking care of the environment simultaneously. IPPTA feels that fostering the future of energy and the environment in the pulp and paper industry requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. Collaboration and innovation are essential.
Government, Industry Associations and Companies must work together to set goals, establish regulations, and promote sustainable practices. By transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, addressing water usage and pollution, and promoting sustainable sourcing, industry can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. The two-day seminar organised by IPPTA on “Fostering the Future of Energy & Environment in Pulp & Paper Industry” will be inaugurated by Dr Manindra Agarwal – IIT Kanpur. Ashwini Laddha, MD &CEO Orient Paper Mills, would grace the chair as guest of honour. The seminar will be attended by more than 350 members comprising of eminent technologists, engineers from India and abroad, Research Institutions etc who will present papers and deliberate on topics concerning progress made and head winds being faced in replacing single use plastic by paper. issues, etc.