Merino Industries: Pioneering 75% Water Neutrality Through Sustainable Innovation

How One Industry is Leading the Charge in Water Conservation

In 2023, Merino Industries, a global leader in decorative laminates, modular furniture, and surface solutions, proudly announced a significant milestone: achieving approximately 75% water neutrality. This remarkable feat stems from decades of commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing water usage intensity.

According to Mr. Prakash Lohia, Managing Director of Merino Industries, sustainability has been at the heart of the company’s operations for over 50 years. Water conservation, a cornerstone of Merino's sustainable practices, involves replenishing the amount of water consumed within the same ecosystem, often exceeding regulatory requirements.

The 5R Approach: Transforming Water Management

Merino Industries credits its success to the adoption of the 5R approach — Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, Replenish, and Restore — as part of its comprehensive Nirmal programme. This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and addresses environmental priorities across soil, water, air, fire, and space.

Key water-saving measures include:

• Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs): Recycling water for industrial applications.

• Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs): Repurposing domestic wastewater for gardening.

• Rainwater Harvesting: Replenishing natural water systems.

• Adiabatic Cooling Systems: Enhancing water efficiency in cooling processes.

• Recharge Structures in Ponds: Restoring ecosystems and groundwater.

  
  

In 2023–24 alone, Merino reused 82,517 kilolitres of water and restored 5,53,815 kilolitres through rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge. These efforts align with the company’s "zero discharge and double recharge" model, where twice the water used in manufacturing is returned to natural systems.

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead

Implementing water conservation techniques at scale comes with challenges, such as technological failures and resource wastage. However, Merino's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation has helped the company refine its processes and integrate advanced technologies to move closer to its goal of achieving 100% water neutrality.

Merino Industries sets a powerful example for industries worldwide, proving that with the right strategies and dedication, significant progress in water conservation is achievable. By maximising the use of every drop of water, Merino continues to lead the charge in sustainable industrial practices.