Speaking at the inaugural session of 9th PaperTech 2015, Mr N Gopalaratnam, Chairman, Seshasayee Paper and Boards Limited underlined that paper sector is one of the most sustainable sectors in the world. The process involved, raw materials used, etc., makes the sector sustainable and eco-friendly, he added.

He highlighted the paper industry can reach new heights in terms of sustainability by appropriate planning for plantation, promoting energy efficiency, water management and Greenhouse Gas Management. Mr Gopalaratnam also discussed the opportunities for the growth of the Indian paper industry. He underlined that, in days to come, India and China will play a critical role in the growth of the paper sector. He said that there will be cross-flow of technologies, raw material, and paper products across the globe. During the process, the sector should embrace sustainable principles to become globally competitive, he highlighted.

Mr Sanjay Singh, President, IPMA & Divisional Chief Executive, ITC Ltd- PSPD emphasized that paper industry although is dependent on wood to meet the raw material requirement, it is planting more trees for meeting their requirements and is not procuring raw material from forests. In the process, the sector is also helping the farmers to improve their livelihoods, he added. Mr Sanjay Singh also emphasised that there is a need to undertake collective & collaborative efforts by the stakeholders to address the issue related to the effluent. He added, that although the paper units are meeting the discharge norms for effluent, the colour of effluent post-treatment needs to be addressed, he said.

Mr K S Kasi Viswanathan, Chairman, PaperTech 2015, highlighted that the Paper sector is undertaking various activities & initiatives, implementing many new technologies in making their operations sustainable & robust. He emphasised that to become globally competitive the sector should focus on effective utilisation of resources such as raw material, energy & water and eliminate waste completely. Mr Kasi Viswanathan also highlighted the activities undertaken by CII in promoting world-class pulp & paper industry. He shared the progress of various activities undertaken for the pulp & paper industry by CII.

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