Sustainability is no longer a choice—it is a necessity. Recognizing this, ISBR CARES, the Centre of Excellence in Sustainability Development, organized a Sustainability Tour to ELCITA (Electronics City Industrial Township Authority). The tour provided a firsthand experience of ELCITA’s sustainability initiatives, covering solid waste management, wastewater treatment, renewable energy utilization, and smart city operations.
Solid Waste Management: Towards a Zero-Waste Future
ELCITA follows a rigorous waste management system, ensuring that no waste reaches landfills. The key highlights of this system include:
- Segregation of Waste: Solid waste is categorized into 42 types for efficient processing.
- Wet Waste Management: Organic waste is converted into biomass and biogas.
- Dry Waste Recycling: Biodegradable waste is composted, while plastics and paper are separated for reuse.
- Aristo Dustbin System: A smart waste collection system enhances segregation and disposal efficiency.
A significant achievement of ELCITA’s initiative is its operational bio-gas plant, which processes 60 kg of organic waste daily, reinforcing its commitment to zero-waste goals.
Efficient Wastewater Management
ELCITA has set up four sewage treatment plants (STPs) to ensure effective wastewater treatment and reuse. The key processes include:
- Sewage Collection and Filtration: Removing contaminants before recycling water.
- Recycled Water Usage: Treated water is repurposed for cleaning and irrigation, reducing freshwater consumption.
- Fresh Water Management: Ensuring soft water usage by treating BWSSB-supplied water.
- Future Expansion: Increasing STP capacity from 1.2 million liters to 1.6 million liters.
By integrating innovative separation techniques and oil extraction methods, ELCITA ensures optimal wastewater treatment and minimal environmental impact.
Renewable Energy Utilization: A Step Towards Carbon Neutrality
To minimize reliance on non-renewable energy, ELCITA has embraced renewable sources:
- Solar Power Generation: A solar plant generating 84 watts contributes significantly to energy requirements.
- Excess Energy Management: Surplus energy is transferred to BESCOM, optimizing electricity use.
These initiatives contribute to ELCITA’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality while ensuring a sustainable power supply.
Smart City Operations: Integrating Technology for Sustainability
ELCITA has adopted smart technology solutions to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and urban governance:
- Citizen Feedback System: Residents report infrastructure issues through an app for prompt resolution.
- IoT-Based Street Lights: 600 smart streetlights optimize energy consumption.
- GIS Mapping: Real-time infrastructure mapping and monitoring for accurate data collection.
- AI-Based Road Assessment: Tracking road conditions to ensure timely repairs and budget allocation.
- Electric Fleet Management: Operating 14 electric vehicles and monitoring transit operations via an automated system.
Carbon Neutrality Goals and Future Sustainability Plans
ELCITA is determined to achieve carbon neutrality through:
- Electricity Emissions Monitoring: Tracking energy usage to reduce carbon footprints.
- Corporate Data Collection: Collaborating with businesses to accelerate sustainability efforts.
- Disaster Management Portal: Enhancing emergency response and risk mitigation strategies.
- Sustainable Infrastructure Planning: Categorizing projects into planned, in-progress, and completed phases, with 22 projects successfully executed.
Financial Management and Funding Sustainability Projects
ELCITA funds its sustainability efforts through:
- Corporate Tax Collection: 99% revenue from corporate contributions, including companies like Infosys.
- Infrastructure Development: Ensuring financial resources are effectively allocated for sustainability initiatives.
A Benchmark for Sustainable Development
ELCITA’s systematic approach to urban sustainability is a model for smart cities worldwide. Its initiatives in waste management, wastewater treatment, renewable energy, and digital governance set a precedent for responsible urbanization.
ISBR Business School extends its gratitude to the ELCITA Management, Mr. Yakshith, and Ms. Sahana for guiding students on this enriching tour. This experience has inspired future leaders in sustainability, fostering a culture of social and corporate responsibility among ISBR students.
About ISBR Business School: ISBR Business School, located in Bangalore, India, is a premier institution dedicated to providing world-class education in business and management. Accredited by the NBA and recognized by the Association of Indian Universities and the Ministry of HRD, Government of India, ISBR has consistently been ranked as a platinum institute by AICTE-CII. With a diverse student body, a strong emphasis on industry collaboration, and a curriculum designed to foster innovation and leadership, ISBR Business School is committed to shaping the business leaders of tomorrow. The school’s robust placement record and partnerships with top global companies underscore its commitment to excellence and career readiness for its students