Lloyds Metals reduces carbon footprint by 55% with Maharashtra's first slurry pipeline
The slurry pipeline, laid from the Surjagarh Iron Ore Mines to Konsari, has now been fully constructed and successfully tested. This pipeline is a major step in LMEL's commitment to green logistics, sustainability, and responsible industrial practices. Highlighting its significance, B. Prabhakaran, Managing Director, LMEL, stated: 'The commissioning of this slurry pipeline is a momentous occasion, marking the first such project in India after a gap of 11 years. Importantly, it will be the fourth operational iron ore slurry pipeline in the country and the first in the state of Maharashtra. This achievement firmly positions Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd as a true pioneer in the region.'
The pipeline is expected to reduce freight costs by ₹500–600 per tonne. It offers a dual benefit—significant cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint, reflecting LMEL's environmental stewardship.
There are two scenarios in the transportation of iron ore: one using coal-based power and another powered by renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. In the coal-powered scenario, transporting iron ore by road emits approximately 11 kg of carbon per tonne, equating to 1.1 lakh tonnes of emissions annually. In contrast, transportation via the slurry pipeline can reduce carbon emissions by 55%, amounting to a reduction of 61,000 tonnes per year, or 184 tonnes per day.
If renewable energy is used to power the slurry pipeline, LMEL can potentially eliminate up to 100% of these emissions—an annual reduction of 1.1 lakh tonnes. In that scenario, carbon emissions would decrease by 333 tonnes per day, or approximately 9,200 tonnes per month. LMEL aims to achieve this milestone shortly.
3 lakh trees planted—and counting
Minimising waste, transitioning to green energy, and reducing its carbon footprint are only a few components of LMEL's broader environmental commitment. Under its 'Mission Green' initiative—aligned with the vision of producing India's 'green steel'—the company has planted over 3 lakh trees across various locations. Thousands of saplings have also been distributed to key stakeholders, reinforcing a community-led approach to sustainability.
By forest clearance conditions, LMEL allocated 377.58 hectares of private land in Arvi and Karanja talukas (Wardha district) for compensatory afforestation, in lieu of 374.90 hectares diverted for the Surjagarh Iron Ore Mine. A deposit of ₹2.49 crore was made with the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). Within this area, the State Forest Department planted 2,56,388 native saplings in Arvi taluka, which have since taken root. This land was officially declared a reserved forest on June 16, 2023—an encouraging testament to the initiative's success.
At the Surjagarh mines, LMEL has planted 5,285 native saplings within the designated safety zone and an additional 14,000 saplings along roads from Etapalli to Hedri. To engage the local community, fruit gardens have been established by planting 1,800 saplings and distributing over 9,500 fruit-bearing saplings to residents.
At its DRI Plant (Unit-2) in Konsari, LMEL has planted nearly 50,000 saplings over 17 hectares, in collaboration with the local Forest Department and using native species.
As part of its greenbelt development strategy, LMEL continues to support biodiversity through the plantation of diverse native flora. Additionally, around 19,000 fruit-bearing plants have been distributed and planted in nearby villages to promote local participation in sustainable greening efforts.
Disclaimer: The article has been produced on behalf of Lloyd Metals by the Times Internet's Spotlight team.
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