GAC India, part of Dubai-based GAC group, has rolled out a series of green initiatives at its Kakinada offshore base in South India state of Andhra Pradesh, with the objective of minimising its environmental impact on the local area.

A leading global provider of shipping, logistics, marine and related services, the GAC group aims to provide a safe, secure and efficient base for the storage, maintenance and transport of vital equipment for the offshore industry, said a compay official.

Carl Riley, business development manager – Offshore Services of GAC India, said, "Our principals are doing their utmost to protect the environment in their areas of activity, and we must not fail to assist them."

"We aim to cut carbon emissions, and decrease the amount of toxins released into the air and water, without compromising the efficiency or quality of our service. This will help ensure a cleaner and safer habitat for the local people, plants and wildlife along the Kakinada coast," Riley observed.

“We decided to convert all the heavy equipment at our offshore base to a superior biofuel, produced locally at the nearby Naturol Refinery (using a local producer also reduces our carbon footprint, especially as the supplier has agreed to keep supplies in stock at our yard),” he added.

In parallel, GAC has started using low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints to keep the buildings at the base shipshape.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, traditional paints and finishes are among the leading hazards to human health as they release low level toxic emissions into the air for years after application.

Switching to low VOC paints reduces the release of toxins, safeguarding the environment and the health of workers, he pointed out.

GAC Kakinada has also launched an initiative to reduce consumption, and to re-use and recycle resources, as well as ensure the responsible disposal of hazardous waste.

Strict energy conservation guidelines are enforced to lower the amount of electricity used, and keep climate controlled rooms insulated from outside temperatures, Riley explained.

"Hazardous waste removal and disposal is closely observed to sure the proper procedure is followed. There are also plans to store rain water and use native vegetation to decrease flooding around the yard’s perimeter, while also reducing runoff into the ocean."

The initiatives have been welcomed by clients of the yard, like Global Geophysical’s Onshore Manager at Kakinada, Walid Makarem, who says: “GAC’s dedication to environmental conservation is impressive.  I would like to see more offshore companies take part in this initiative.”

Future initiatives include using local organic cotton and natural dyes for GAC shirts and coveralls and the application of new, environmentally safe anti-fouling products and techniques to maximise the operating efficiency of offshore vessels without the use of toxic chemicals, said Riley.

“We are committed to finding green solutions for India’s rapidly growing economy and infrastructure. We hope that others will see what we are doing and follow our example,” he remarked.-TradeArabia News Service