Written by Manoj Lohia, Director Merino Industries Ltd.
Sustainability has evolved from a choice to an imperative, driving significant transformations in the laminate industry to meet global environmental goals. Guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), environmental initiatives shaping the industry’s future.
These initiatives also underlines the theme of this year’s World Environment Day campaign, which focuses on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience under the slogan “Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration.”
Renewable Energy Adoption (SDG 7)
Increasing the focus on renewable energy is crucial for the laminate industry’s sustainable initiatives. Many large companies are generating thermal energy from boilers or waste-to-energy plants using green or regenerative fuels like agro-residues or biomass. Renewable power from solar and hybrid system on wind and solar captive plants are preferred over traditional coal-fired grid power for electricity needs.
This increases the share of renewable energy in the company’s total energy mix, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and effectively manages agricultural waste. These initiatives align with SDG 7, which aims for affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
Water Conservation (SDG 6)
Addressing global water scarcity is essential. Major players in the laminate sector have adopted the 5R approach: Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, Replenish, and Restore. Most companies use advanced wastewater treatment methods to recycle maximum water in their factories. Leading
companies are also focused on reducing water intensity in production and maximizing water replenishment through natural water ponds, reservoirs, and rainwater harvesting facilities.
These initiatives are effective under Integrated Water Resources Management, which aims to protect and restore water-related ecosystems. This commitment supports SDG 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation.
Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
Sustainable development hinges on responsible consumption and production. The laminate industry is lowering resource intensity in production by investing in better technology and adopting a circular economy, minimizing waste, and reusing resources. Companies focus on
growing and using regenerative raw materials from non-chemical agroforestry practices and agro-residues.
Certification programs that support responsible production, procurement, and promotion of products are key initiatives aligning with SDG 12 now followed by leading laminate manufacturers in India.
Climate Action through Environmental Care (SDG 13)
Meaningful mitigation actions for climate change and transparency in implementation are visible initiatives among laminate industry. Promoting tree plantations, adhering to emissions control measures, adopting resource-efficient technologies, and continuously innovating to save scarce natural resources are vital for climate change mitigation. Tree plantations and agroforestry act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. Agroforestry also provides additional income for farmers, supporting SDGs 1 and 8, which focus on economic growth and poverty alleviation.
Community Engagement and Sustainable Livelihoods (SDG 8)
Sustainability includes social responsibility. Laminate manufacturers create sustainable livelihoods for communities by generating gainful employment under a responsible business practices. Further collaborating with farmers for agroforestry practices. Providing high-yield
seedlings and support services with guaranteed procurement policies for their harvest improves farmers’ incomes, aligning with SDG 8, which aims for sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all.
Conclusion
The laminate industry has made significant progress in embedding sustainability into its operations. By aligning with multiple SDGs, the sector sets a benchmark for others, demonstrating how businesses can drive environmental care and positive change while
fostering climate action and resilient initiatives. Merino Industries, the leading player in laminate industry, exemplifies this commitment with all of the above initiatives, showing how positive environmental care and actions can uplift communities towards a sustainable industrial future.
