Guwahati: Green energy and sustainability are necessary approaches to combating climate change and ensuring long-term energy security. They are increasingly key to transitioning nations towards renewable energy sources to satisfy the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 7 as Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 13 as Climate Action. India is presently one of the major developing nations that is embracing this growth by focusing on green energy endeavours, such as biodiesel, and promoting sustainability in industries.
Biodiesel, bioplastics, and eco-friendly waste management are gaining attention as critical enablers for a cleaner and greener future, and the Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology (CIPET) in Guwahati has emerged as a significant player in advancing the green energy goals in the northeastern region.
In an exclusive conversation with Business North East (BNE), Harekrishna Deka, Director of CIPET: CSTS - Guwahati, detailed the institute's initiatives to foster green fuels, sustainability, and technology-based solutions in the Northeastern area.
"CIPET, or Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology, reports to the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, while its mandate remains to convert products based on petrochemicals into solutions that may address the current problems in the environment," Deka said.
He emphasised the comprehensive approach of the institute stating that right from research and technology development to market application, CIPET ensures all aspects of plastics and allied industries are addressed under one roof.
"We aim to show how we can design and manufacture plastic products for sustainable applications while considering the environmental impact. We are actively supporting the transition to green fuels through advanced technologies and the encouragement of industries towards sustainable practices. Biodiesel is one of the important tools in reducing emissions and making the environment cleaner, and CIPET is committed to providing the technical know-how and skilled workforce that can drive this change," he said.
CIPET takes it further through sustainability integration in all areas of its activity, such as the promotion of bioplastics and a trend away from conventionally petrochemical-based products. "We are also looking at innovation in biodegradable and recyclable material as part of a thrust for green fuels," he added.
Moreover, CIPET has played a pivotal role in developing a qualified workforce for plastics and allied industries in the region. Since its inception in 1968, it has been pioneering the work of skill development.
"Our skill development programs, three to six months long, are more industry-centric for producing job-ready skills. We have a lot of courses and, therefore, can address the growing requirements of skilled manpower in the established and the emerging sectors of the plastics industry," Deka elaborated.
Deka also mentioned that CIPET works closely with industry leaders to ensure that the curriculum and facilities are in line with the present and future demands. "Industry representatives are part of our advisory committees, and their feedback helps us update our programs regularly. Besides, our facilities provide technological support to industries to test and develop innovative solutions," Deka added.
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This collaboration benefits both students and industries. “Students receive practical experience with the newest technologies, while industries tap into a workforce of skilled labour and advanced resources,” Deka mentioned.
CIPET also promotes entrepreneurship via Entrepreneurship Development Programs (EDPs). "We provide aspiring entrepreneurs access to advanced machinery and workshops. This helps them start businesses, develop prototypes, or incubate ideas. Our handholding support ensures that even first-time entrepreneurs have the resources and guidance needed to succeed," said Deka.
He added that CIPET's long legacy of commitment towards startup development and small entrepreneurs has enabled so many entrepreneurs to establish successful ventures in the plastics and allied industries.
According to Harekrishna Deka, the Plastic Waste Management Centre of CIPET has been established as a facilitative platform to propagate sustainable waste management practices and sensitise people towards recycling.
"We offer technical support and training to industries and communities to get them accustomed to greening their practice. It is one of the necessary steps for less plastic waste generation and a circular economy," he added.
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Importantly, CIPET functions as a self-sustaining business. Although we are a Government of India institute, we raise our budget and meet operational costs ourselves. In this self-reliant model, we can be as flexible and efficient as anyone else while also continuing to deliver best-in-class service and training program," Deka explained and further added that the focus on green fuels, skill development, and waste management helped CIPET drive innovation in petroleum-based products and sustainability into the business streams.
"The Northeast region has benefited from having CIPET there. It has certainly strengthened the area's capacity to accept and innovate in sustainable technologies. We are committed to supporting industries and communities in the shift toward greener, more sustainable practices," he told BNE.
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