Charter 3.0: Water Recycling and Pollution Prevention in Pulp and Paper Industries

Introduction

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has introduced the Charter 3.0 for water recycling in paper & pulp industry and pollution prevention in pulp and paper industries located in the main stem states of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. This initiative aims to further reduce water consumption and manage effluent discharge in these industries, which have a significant impact on the environment.

Need for Charter 3.0

The pulp and paper industries in the Ganga and Yamuna basins have made considerable progress in reducing water consumption and effluent discharge since the implementation of earlier charters. However, with increasing production capacities and a shift towards zero liquid discharge (ZLD), new environmental challenges, such as high pollutant concentrations in recycled water, have emerged. Charter 3.0 aims to address these issues through updated guidelines, technological interventions, and stricter monitoring.

Key Features of Charter 3.0

Charter 3.0 introduces specific freshwater consumption and effluent discharge targets for different categories of pulp and paper mills. It mandates the installation of advanced effluent treatment plants (ETPs), enhanced monitoring systems, and recycling protocols to ensure ZLD status. Additionally, it emphasizes the scientific disposal of non-paper solid waste like plastic, boiler ash, and ETP sludge.

Conclusion

Water recycling in the paper industry is a critical step in promoting sustainable practices in the pulp and paper industry, ensuring that environmental impact is minimized while maintaining production efficiency. With the participation of all stakeholders, this initiative is expected to enhance water conservation and improve effluent management in the Ganga and Yamuna river basins.

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