Goa MSMEs Can Cut 8,000–10,000 Tonnes CO2 a Year, IIT Ropar Audit Finds
According to a recent audit conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Goa’s small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have the potential to reduce their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 8,000 to 10,000 tonnes annually. This finding comes from an extensive analysis of approximately 300 local industrial units, carried out by the Centre of Research for Energy Efficiency and Decarbonization (CREED) in collaboration with Goa’s Directorate of Industries, Trade, and Commerce.
Audit Findings
The audits focused on mapping energy and water consumption patterns within local industries. They revealed significant operational wastage that often goes unnoticed. Each audit resulted in an investment-grade project report that outlined corrective measures, technology upgrades, and process optimizations.
Impact of CO2 Reduction
If the proposed measures are implemented, the estimated CO2 savings would be comparable to:
- Offsetting emissions from 1,600 to 2,000 passenger cars annually, based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) benchmark of 5 tonnes of CO2 per vehicle per year.
- The CO2 absorption capacity of approximately 360,000 to 450,000 mature trees, using established estimates of 22 kg of CO2 absorbed per tree per year.
Expert Insights
Rajeev Ahuja, the director of IIT Ropar, emphasized the importance of targeted interventions for reshaping industrial performance. He stated, “Our work with MSMEs under the RAMP program will show how targeted interventions can reshape industrial performance. By combining advanced research with on-ground support, we will help enterprises become cost-efficient, resource-conscious, and future-ready.”
Manigandan S, the CREED coordinator, highlighted the practical and transformative nature of the audit methodology. He noted, “We focus on solutions that industries can implement immediately while also preparing them for long-term sustainability. The response from Goa’s MSMEs has been extremely encouraging.”
Addressing Long-Standing Challenges
The audits are assisting MSMEs in tackling persistent challenges, including:
- Excessive fuel and electricity consumption
- Inefficient water management
- Outdated machinery
Many units have reported identifying high-impact, low-investment improvements within days of CREED’s assessments, showcasing the immediate benefits of the audit process.
Previous Successes
CREED has previously implemented similar initiatives in states such as Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Haryana. In Punjab alone, CREED-led initiatives have proposed reductions of over 49,000 tonnes of annual CO2 emissions, reflecting the potential for significant environmental impact through targeted efficiency measures.
Conclusion
The findings from the IIT Ropar audit underscore the critical role that MSMEs can play in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability in Goa. By adopting the recommended measures, these enterprises not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enhance their operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Note: The potential for CO2 reduction and the benefits of implementing efficiency measures highlight the importance of ongoing support and collaboration between research institutions and local industries.
