K-P in deal to harness marble waste

Govt partners with PCSIR for green innovation

PESHAWAR:

In a significant move towards environment friendliness, sustainable development, and technological advancement, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development & Management Company (KPEZDMC) and PCSIR Laboratories Complex Peshawar on Friday here at Peshawar. CEO KPEZDMC Javed Khattak represented his company while Director General PCSIR Jahangir Shah was among the signing parties. Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Industries, Commerce, and Technical Education Abdul Karim Tordher graced this ceremony as a chief guest.

The agreement aims to facilitate the transfer of technology and establish a mechanical plant for the alternate use of marble and granite slurry. A vast amount of non-biodegradable waste is generated during mining and processing operations of dimensional stones such as marble.

This, over the years, has become a global nuisance by damaging the environment. Therefore, it has become necessary to find a technique to safely dispose of or reuse marble waste.

Marble processing units often grapple with the environmental issue of marble slurry, posing a significant challenge to sustainability. In response, KPEZDMC has initiated proactive strategies within the newly established Mohmand Economic Zone to tackle this pressing concern.

The province of K-P is a major producer of marble products comprising around 80 operational marble industries. This MoU signifies a collaborative effort towards technological innovation and sustainable utilization of resources initiated by the government of K-P.

It paves the way for economic development and environmental conservation through efficient management of marble and granite waste.

The collaboration seeks to acquire technical know-how for the installation of a mechanical plant at Mohmand Economic Zone in district Mohmand.

PCSIR Laboratories Complex Peshawar has willingly agreed to transfer the necessary technology for the purpose.

The key measures being implemented are construction of sedimentation tanks, provision of dumping area, mining waste/industrial residual management, and slurry management plan.

This progress reflects the dedication of Special Assistant of Industries, Commerce, and Technical Education, Abdul Karim Khan, in fostering sustainable industrial development for the region.

His steadfast commitment to addressing environmental challenges and promoting innovative solutions has been instrumental in driving positive change. These initiatives underscore the Government’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable industrial practices in the province, emphasizing the importance of a green environment in light of pressing issues like climate change.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 20^th, 2024.