Question

Explain the measures taken by ‘National Thermal Power Corporation’ to prevent environmental degradation.

Answer 1

1. Technology Upgradation and Resource Optimization:
   • Modern Equipment: NTPC upgrades existing machinery and adopts state-of-the-art technologies to optimize fuel combustion. This high operational efficiency drastically cuts down greenhouse gas intensity and prevents fuel wastage.
   • Clean Energy Expansion: The corporation is diversifying its power portfolio by targeting 60 GW of renewable energy capacity. It is actively pioneering green hydrogen and carbon capture projects to offset carbon emissions.
2. Comprehensive Waste and Ash Management: 
   • Ash Utilization: To limit soil and air contamination, NTPC targets 100% ash utilization. It processes fly ash for industrial applications, such as manufacturing cement, bricks, and construction materials.
   • Ash Pond Management: Specialized ash dykes and dry ash extraction systems are built to ensure toxic particles do not escape into nearby ecosystems. 
3. Water Conservation and Liquid Waste Recycling: 
   • Closed-Loop Recycling: Power plants operate Ash Water Recycling Systems (AWRS) and liquid waste treatment plants to trap effluents.
   • Zero Liquid Discharge: Wastewater from coal and oil settling pits is treated and reused inside the plant facilities. This reduces freshwater intake and prevents toxic run-offs from reaching local water bodies.
4. Afforestation and Ecological Green Belts: 
   • Green Belts: NTPC establishes expansive green belts around all its power stations to act as natural filters for air pollution and noise.
   • Tree Plantation: Through targeted afforestation drives, NTPC has planted over 40 million trees to restore degraded land and preserve local biodiversity. 
5. Continuous Environmental Monitoring:
   • Online Databases: Every power plant is monitored via an online Data Base Management System. This maps ambient air quality, stack emissions, and groundwater parameters in real-time.
   • Ecological Reviews: Real-time data feeds directly into regional and corporate headquarters, allowing immediate corrections if emissions exceed environmental limits.