As the world unites to celebrate World Environment Day, SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) reaffirms its strong commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. With a legacy of innovation and responsibility, RSP continues to set benchmarks in eco-friendly steelmaking, striking a fine balance between industrial growth and ecological preservation. From reducing carbon emissions to conserving water and spreading the canopy of green, RSP exemplifies how heavy industry can coexist harmoniously with nature.
Rourkela Steel Plant has successfully implemented a range of innovative measures to minimize its ecological footprint, mitigate pollution, and preserve precious natural resources. These initiatives not only contribute to a greener future but also ensure the highest standards of environmental compliance. Consistent water conservation efforts at RSP have led to a significant reduction in specific water consumption over the years. The successful commissioning of the Treatment System-1 under the Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Project has resulted in a noticeable reduction in fresh water drawl from the Tarkera Pump House. In 2024-25, the specific water consumption of water was an all time low of 2.98 m3/TCS. The order for Treatment System-2 has been placed, with implementation planned over the next 18 months, paving the way for even greater water efficiency at RSP.
To enhance energy efficiency and promote sustainable operations, Waste Heat Recovery Systems have been installed in Sinter Plants (SP) #3 and #2 at RSP for capturing waste heat from the sinter coolers and channeling it back into the production process. This initiative has led to a significant reduction in coke breeze consumption—by approximately 4 kg per ton of sinter in SP#3 and 2 kg per ton in SP#2—thereby contributing to both resource conservation and reduced carbon footprint.
To enhance the accuracy, transparency, and accountability in carbon intensity monitoring, RSP has developed and implemented a Carbon Intensity Assessment system integrated through ERP-SAP. This digital advancement has significantly strengthened data verification and streamlined the assessment process, marking a major step forward in RSP’s climate-conscious operational strategy.
Regular monitoring, sampling and analysis of various Environmental Parameters are also being carried out for taking corrective actions for continuous improvement. The monitoring stations are uplinked with the servers of State Pollution Control Board, Govt. of Odisha and Central Pollution Control Board, Govt. of India. The results are regularly analyzed and preventive actions are taken to minimize environmental pollution.
Among the noteworthy accomplishments of RSP is its significant reduction in carbon emissions through the adoption of cleaner technologies and energy-efficient processes. RSP has recorded significant improvements in various specific environmental parameters, including a reduction in CO2 emissions by 2.53% and specific water consumption by 2.98%, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
RSP has been widely recognized for its exemplary environmental practices, earning prestigious accolades such as the Kalinga Environment Excellence Award in the 5-Star Category, Greentech PCWR Excellence Award, and the Global Energy & Environment Foundation (GEEF) Global Environment Award 2024 in the Platinum Category. These honors reflect RSP’s deep commitment to sustainability, resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship across its operations.
Furthermore, RSP has undertaken extensive reforestation efforts, so far planting more than 52 Lakhs trees in and around its premises, thereby enhancing biodiversity and improving air quality. The green and clean ambience of the Steel City of Rourkela offers an eloquent testimony to RSP’s commitment to Mother Earth.
