In a commendable initiative to address the issue of stubble burning and its adverse effects on air quality, the ACC-Adani Foundation at Tikaria Cement Works in Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi district has taken significant steps to manage crop residue efficiently. Stubble burning, a widespread practice among farmers, has been a major contributor to air pollution, particularly in the northern regions of the country.
Recognizing the challenges faced by farmers in managing crop residue, especially during the short interval between harvesting and sowing, the ACC-Adani Foundation undertook a comprehensive drive in Tikaria village. This region predominantly cultivates rice and wheat, with the peak harvest season occurring between October and November.
To devise a sustainable solution, the foundation gathered data from neighboring villages to understand local agricultural practices and the types of crops grown. Upon examining samples of crop residue, it was determined that this biomass could serve as a viable fuel alternative for the Captive Power Plant (CPP) at the Tikaria cement unit, which boasts a capacity of 15 MW and was commissioned in 1998.
Engaging with the local farming community, the foundation initiated a collaborative effort with approximately 50 farmers who willingly provided crop residue from their fields free of cost. The Adani Foundation, as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) outreach, is supporting the local Farmer Producer Company (FPC), which has taken on the responsibility of managing and transporting crop residue from fields to a designated storage area.
The FPC, operating on a chargeable basis, also handles the crucial task of shredding the stubble. In just 15 days in December, the FPC Annapurna Producers’ Company successfully collected crop residue from nearly 13 acres of fields, demonstrating the effectiveness of this sustainable approach.
With the systematic collection and disposal of stubble, the Tikaria cement plant has gained an additional source of energy. Over the past two years, approximately 74 tonnes of stubble have been collected from the village and utilized in the plant. Despite the associated costs of transportation and shredding, which can be substantial, the initiative has proven to be a positive step toward both environmental conservation and providing an alternate energy source for the cement plant.
Farmers in the region have expressed their gratitude for the support provided by the ACC-Adani Foundation in managing stubble, emphasizing the relief it brings to their communities. This collaborative effort serves as a noteworthy example of how corporate initiatives and community engagement can contribute to sustainable practices, addressing environmental concerns while benefiting local agriculture and industry.
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