Birla Cellulose’s Kharach plant attains EU BAT status with innovative CS2 recovery system

Birla Cellulose, a global leader in sustainable man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCF), has achieved a significant milestone with its Kharach plant in Gujarat successfully commissioning a Carbon-disulphide (CS2) Adsorption Plant. This state-of-the-art facility has attained the prestigious EU Best Available Techniques (BAT) status, marking a significant achievement in sustainable manufacturing practices.

Innovative Closed-Loop Technologies for Environmental Sustainability

The Kharach plant has deployed closed-loop technologies to minimize emissions of CS2 and Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S). This innovative approach has led to the recovery of 90-95% of Sulphur, a target that aligns with the highest standards of environmental efficiency. The plant’s success in recovering CS2 and elemental sulphur from H2S emissions is a testament to Birla Cellulose’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Independent Validation by BluWin Ltd., UK

The plant’s environmental achievements were independently validated by BluWin Ltd., UK, assessing all parameters stipulated in the EU BAT BREF for viscose fiber manufacturing. This validation underscores Birla Cellulose’s dedication to meeting and exceeding global environmental standards.

Comments from Grasim Industries’ MD & Business Director

H K Agarwal, MD of Grasim Industries and Business Director of Birla Cellulose, emphasized the significance of this milestone. He stated that achieving the EU BAT status is in line with global best practices and marks a step forward towards global leadership in sustainable practices in the MMCF industry.

Setting Global Benchmarks in Sustainability

Birla Cellulose’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the Kharach plant. Its Vilayat plant, one of the largest Viscose Staple Fiber (VSF) producing sites in the world, is already EU BAT compliant. This plant sets global benchmarks in parameters such as sulfur recovery and water consumption for fiber production.

Recognition in Canopy’s Hot Button Report 2023

Further solidifying its position as a sustainability leader, Birla Cellulose was ranked #1 in Canopy’s Hot Button Report 2023 for its sustainable forestry practices and innovations in NextGen solutions. The company has consistently received the highest rating of ‘Dark Green Shirt’ for four consecutive years.

Birla Cellulose’s Environmental Efficiency Across 12 Sites

Part of the Aditya Birla Group, Birla Cellulose operates 12 sites where environmentally efficient closed-loop technologies are applied. These technologies recycle materials and conserve natural resources, reflecting the company’s deep commitment to environmental sustainability in the MMCF industry.