Some cement units may not need environment NOC: Ministry

Cement production is mainly associated with CO2 emissions and air pollution, especially particulate matter.

The Union environment ministry has proposed to exempt from obtaining prior environmental clearance standalone cement grinding units which do not have captive power plants and transport raw materials and finished products either through the railways or electric vehicles.

A worker at a cement factory. (AFP File Photo)

In a draft notification dated September 26, the ministry has said standalone grinding units which do not undertake calcination and clinkerisation have lower carbon emissions, generate less waste and utilise less energy due to absence of high temperature processes, as compared to cement plants. In addition, transportation of raw materials and finished products via trains and e-vehicles further reduces the release of pollutants.

Despite this and “the fact that such projects do not require Public Consultation and detailed EIA report”, standalone grinding units are “subjected to a similar regulatory and monitoring regime, resulting in disproportionate compliance obligations,” the draft notification has said.

The ministry’s expert appraisal committee has recommended that such units can be considered for exemption from the requirement of prior environmental clearance. The committee observed that the exemption will encourage green logistics and environmental governance, the draft notification said.