Tamilnadu Petroproducts Limited (TPL) is developing an integrated carbon-neutral roadmap and adopting use of circularity and clean energy to achieve sustainable manufacturing. The company has recently joined hands with consultancy firm EY-Parthenon to support its carbon-neutral objectives. TPL seeks to establish internal reduction targets consistent with the Science-Based Targets initiative and prepare an emission reduction strategy primarily for Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

A. What is carbon-neutral manufacturing, and how to approach it?

To reach carbon neutral manufacturing, companies will need to change their daily business interactions and manufacturing processes.

Three key strategies stand out in the quest for Carbon neutral manufacturing: energy efficiency and optimization, sustainable materials, and procurement, and adopting circular economy principles. All these approaches propose a pathway towards significant reductions in carbon emissions, contributing to the international effort against climate change.

1. Energy Efficiency and Optimization

Developing energy efficiency across manufacturing processes is one of the most competent methods to cut carbon emissions.

2. Sustainable Materials and Procurement

By using sustainable materials in their manufacturing processes, firms can lower their carbon footprint. This can mean using non-toxic materials and integrating recycled resources into manufacturing.

3. Circular Economy Principles

Lastly, adopting the principles of the circular economy can deeply transform manufacturing towards sustainability. Chemical producers like TPL may utilize circular economy models to reduce waste and maximize resource use.

B. 5 key things that TPL will implement.

Comprehend and address Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Internal reduction targets with Science Based Targets Initiative

Devise emission reduction plan primarily for Scope 1 & 2 emissions.

Implement interventions like clean energy substitution, process efficiency improvement, circularity, and digital automation.

As the company moves towards its goal of carbon-neutral manufacturing, TPL is setting standards for sustainable manufacturing and industry operations.

1. Comprehend and address Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

It should be noted that the standard for The Greenhouse Gas protocol was developed through a partnership between the World Resource Institute and World Business Council for Sustainable Development. This protocol sets a charter for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions and is the world’s most used greenhouse gas accounting standard. The standard covers accounting and reporting of seven greenhouse gases covered by the Kyoto protocol i.e. Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, Hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulphur hexafluoride and Nitrogen trifluoride. TPL will implement the monitoring of these by-products in its processes.

2. Internal reduction targets with Science Based Targets Initiative

The trend of Carbon accounting and sustainability are rising in popularity in the middle of global warming, and therefore TPL has taken up the initiative to set science-based reduction targets accordingly in a time-bound manner.

3. Devise emission reduction plan primarily for Scope 1 & 2 emissions.

Scope 1 emissions comprise direct emissions from a company’s owned or controlled sources. This involves on-site energy, such as natural gas and fuel, refrigerants, or emissions from combustion in owned or controlled boilers and furnaces, as well as emissions from fleet vehicles.

Scope 2 emissions represent the largest source of global GHG emissions by encompassing at least a third of them. This implies a greater emission reduction opportunity with the measuring of scope 2 emissions. But what do these emissions include? Scope 2 emissions comprise indirect emissions from purchased or acquired energy. Electricity, steam, heat, or cooling, that is generated off-site and consumed by the reporting company.

4. Implement interventions like clean energy substitution, process efficiency improvement, circularity, and digital automation.

A. Clean Energy Substitution

Fossil fuels are constituted primarily of energy sources from coal, oil, propane, and natural gas. Previously, alternative forms of energy have proven to be uneconomic substitutes. They have been less efficient and more expensive than fossil fuels. Therefore, governments world over provides subsidies for consumers who choose cleaner forms of renewable energy for their houses or their vehicles. Businesses like ours and governments both are investing in renewable energy infrastructure
and advancement.

B. Process efficiency improvement.

The critical challenge of reducing industrial greenhouse gas emissions has created a growing demand for a more inclusive understanding of how various technology options can contribute to realising carbon neutrality. Energy efficiency has long been regarded as a main pathway in this environment, however the volume and diversity of efficiency options has resulted in an unclear understanding of their combined impacts. In view of these challenges and opportunities the potential for efficiency improvement has been the focus of numerous government and academic studies across every industrial sector and in companies like TPL. This includes iron and steel, cement, petroleum refining, and pulp and paper.

C. Circularity

For a transition to carbon neutrality, we need the device of a carbon-neutral circular economy. Circular economy is effective in tackling global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, overconsumption, waste, and pollution. At the core of the circular economy lies the use of raw materials responsibly so that the earth’s well-being, climate, nature and biodiversity are not endangered. We at TPL are working towards making our business sustainable. We will identify our sustainability targets and make an action plan on how to achieve the set targets.

D. Digital Automation

While there are several views on reducing climate change, using technical solutions based on digital automation is often seen as an integral element of climate change solutions. Digital automation has been known to drive key results in containing climate change by offering practical and implementable solutions that contribute to environmental sustainability.

5. As the company moves towards its goal of carbon-neutral manufacturing, TPL is setting standards for sustainable manufacturing and industry operations.

Shifting towards carbon-neutral manufacturing is a significant step towards abating climate change and reducing environmental impact. Setting standards for sustainable manufacturing and industry operations not only benefits the environment but also creates a more resilient and responsible business model.

Conclusion

Decisively, manufacturers are critical in lowering global greenhouse gas emissions and bringing about carbon neutrality. Adopting sustainable and ecologically responsible methods is a moral responsibility and a sound business decision in today’s scenario. The success of these initiatives will call for a collaborative strategy, including all stakeholders, including manufacturers, governments, consumers, and investors, working together to create a sustainable future for generations to come.

We share a LinkedIn post penned by Ms. Devaki Ashwin Muthiah as she reflects on her first year as a Director at AM International, Singapore.

For my first year as a director at AM International Holdings Private Limited my goals were to meet all our teams and visit their operational sites, sharing my vision for the future and continuing to build our group ecosystem in the most sustainable way.

Although the global context has brought a lot of challenges and uncertainty, I have witnessed the dedication of our people to build our companies and I have started to see our growth opportunities. I can clearly see that we have an exciting way ahead of us.

I’d like to share with you a few highlights:

Last December we experienced heavy unprecedented rainfall in Southern India, affecting many of our operational sites. I would like to thank everyone who was involved in the restarting of our plants, your resilience and hard work is unparalleled.

This past year Tuticorin Alkali Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited has been successful at producing the world’s first green soda ash utilising green ammonia. Their efforts were awarded the Unilever Clean Future Award. An initiative recognising unmissably superior products that are sustainable and of great value.

Last August, Greenstar commissioned a new state of the art water-soluble plant in Tuticorin, this is our first plant completely run by women. I take this opportunity to salute all the women across our companies’ breaking boundaries in the industry.

Manali Petrochemicals Ltd. have successfully commissioned a new polyester polyol plant in-house. This project provides us with an opportunity for captive consumption through backward integration. Our team is currently working on expanding capacity.

The team at PennWhite – Global Chemical Solutions worked collaboratively across borders with our India teams to launch our new enterprise, PennWhite India. This year we are in the process of assessing the viability of developing a manufacturing facility in India, which will enable the local production of selected PennWhite products to serve the regional market.

NOTEDOME has been working hard on its rebranding strategy and increasing its visibility in the market, and has put on a great display stand at UTECH Europe 2024 in Maastricht. UTECH is the leading international exhibition and conference for the global polyurethanes industry.

I am looking forward to FY24-25, where we will build upon the foundations we have laid and continue to pursue our vision with a renewed vigour.

In other news, I’ve recently joined Instagram professionally, follow my handle @devaki_muthiah, and I look forward to interacting with you!

Read the original post here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devaki-ashwin-muthiah-789295a1/

In a strategic stride towards enhancing its portfolio and sustainability initiatives, Manali Petro Chemicals (MPL) announced the commissioning of its new polyester polyol plant. This development marks a significant milestone for the company, reflecting its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

The Phase 1 commissioning of the plant is set to add capacity to its manufacturing volumes, focusing primarily on polyester polyol—a crucial component in various polyurethane applications.

What sets MPL’s initiative apart is its strategic approach to production. The entire output from the plant will be dedicated to captive consumption, embodying a backward integration strategy aimed at reducing input costs and ensuring supply chain resilience. This decision not only secures MPL’s position in the market but also underscores its commitment to self-sufficiency and operational efficiency while executing its CAPEX investments in a timeline driven manner.

Moreover, MPL’s dedication to research and development (R&D) is evident in its sustainable product portfolio development. Beyond merely expanding its product offerings, the company is keen on engineering environmentally friendly solutions. By leveraging innovative techniques and technologies, MPL aims to cater to diverse polyurethane segments, including rigid PUR/PIR foam, footwear, and CASE products.

It is spearheading R&D initiatives, resulting in environmental friendly polyester polyol products. This collaborative approach not only fosters knowledge exchange but also accelerates progress towards a greener future.

In an era marked by increasing environmental consciousness and compliance regulations, MPL’s foray into polyester polyol production aligns perfectly with industry trends. By prioritising sustainability and innovation, MPL is not only future-proofing its operations but also contributing to a more sustainable world.

In an age of information overload in the digital world, differentiating fact from fiction has become necessary for all consumers.
As we observe International Fact-Checking Day, let us, as individuals and professionals, exercise self-awareness in how we consume and disseminate information, all while safeguarding our integrity and our employer brands. In today’s ‘phygital’ society, our online presence often merges with our physical identity and becomes an extension of our professional life.

Ensuring we avoid biased views, angry rants, or extreme viewpoints not only ensures our sanity but also protects the employer brand.Today, social media is a double-edged tool. Incorrect and unverified messages can spread fast, causing societal disharmony. Hence, we should be utmost careful. The continuous barrage of forwards from unverified sources such as “Whatsapp University” demands filtering. Mindlessly sharing such content contributes to digital garbage and risks spreading misinformation. Instead, let’s promise to be alert digital citizens, always considering the larger good of every piece of information before amplifying it.

The benefits are manifold, be it DIY online courses, study and teaching courses, or being in touch with loved ones via group chats. In times of emergency, social and online media serve as invaluable tools for connecting with near and dear ones and spreading the word for help and resources

On this International Fact-Checking Day, we should become aware and alert digital citizens where we can differentiate between the good and
not-so-good. It will help us reduce digital clutter and create a cleaner, more fact-driven information exchange ecosystem. As a part of the larger universe, let’s be thankful for such technological progress and use it in a way-forward manner. Our ability to use technology for good and larger purpose is critical in our online behaviour.

In the online world, three things are significant to move ahead in a positive manner

• accuracy of the information,
• responsibility to forward or share only meaningful content and
• respect for our collective good and progress.

As we navigate the ever-expanding world of digital and online platforms, our actions will be responsible for shaping society and helping the overall community practice goodness for humankind. Let’s use this power with responsibility and reverence.

International Fact-Checking Day shouldn’t become another day to celebrate once a year! Rather, on this day, let’s promise ourselves to be responsible and respectful for every digital piece of content that we share with our larger network and community. This will help us spread the message of love and learning in a manner that creates a sense of harmony and hope for the future.

It aligns with the global growth and sustainable solutions strategy of its parent, Manali Petrochemicals Limited
In a significant move towards expanding its global presence, PennWhite Limited, a leading manufacturer of foam control agents and specialty chemicals, has announced the establishment of its Indian subsidiary, PennWhite India Private Ltd. This strategic decision strengthens PennWhite’s foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic emerging markets. PennWhite Limited, UK, is the overseas step-down subsidiary of Manali Petrochemicals Limited (MPL).

Headquartered in the UK, PennWhite Limited unveiled its plan to set up PennWhite India Private Ltd, effective February 8, 2024. With this expansion, PennWhite aims to cater to the growing demand for premium foam control solutions in India and the Asia-Pacific region. This strategic decision reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its global presence to serve its customers and underscores its dedication to innovation and growth.

Expanding Global Footprints

Establishing PennWhite India is a pivotal step towards enhancing the company’s global footprint and better serving its customers. By establishing a local presence in India, PennWhite aims to understand and address the unique needs of the Indian market while also catering to customers across the Asia-Pacific region.

Additionally, the company is exploring establishing a world-class manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, India, to localize production and uphold international standards.

Focus on Sustainability

PennWhite and its parent, Manali Petrochemicals Limited (MPL), are part of AM International (AMIH), where all businesses place a strong emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. AMIH operative companies are committed to actions that support sustainable solutions and environmental stewardship. MPL’s R&D initiatives in specialty segments are focussed on delivering eco-friendly processes, products and solutions to varied industries and diversified customer needs. Such measures are geared up to serve the evolving needs of industries worldwide.

The establishment of PennWhite India underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. By leveraging local expertise, fostering partnerships, and delivering innovative solutions, PennWhite India aims to serve customers in India and beyond, reinforcing its position as a leader in foam control solutions and specialty chemicals.

‘Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be,’ said Abraham Lincoln. In today’s fast-paced world, happiness might often feel like an elusive goal, but with a mindful approach and small daily practices, we can nurture a sense of contentment and fulfillment. As the world celebrated the International Day of Happiness last week, we took the opportunity to reflect on five simple yet profound ways to cultivate joy in our daily lives.

1. Mindfulness

When was the last time you took a moment to pause, forget about the pressing tasks at hand and just be with yourself? Incorporating mindfulness into our daily routines can significantly enhance our overall well-being. Taking just a few minutes each day to pause, breathe, and be present in the moment can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and improve our ability to handle challenges with grace. Whether it’s through meditation, mindful walking, or simply paying attention to our thoughts and feelings, practicing mindfulness can create a profound shift in how we experience each day.

2. Positivity

In the words of author Jim Rohn, happiness is not by chance but by choice. Cultivating a positive mindset is essential for fostering happiness in our lives. Instead of dwelling on negativity or setbacks, focus on the things that bring you joy and gratitude. Start each day with a positive affirmation or reflection, and actively seek out moments of happiness throughout your day. Surround yourself with positive people who uplift and inspire you, and let go of any toxic relationships or situations that drain your energy.

3. Mental and physical fitness

Taking care of our mental and physical health is crucial for maintaining a happy and balanced life. Make time for regular exercise, whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, or a fun workout class. Physical activity not only boosts our mood and energy levels but also promotes overall health and longevity. Additionally, prioritise mental health practices such as journaling, therapy, or engaging in hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

4. Self-care and self-less care

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s a vital aspect of maintaining our well-being and happiness. Take time each day to prioritise your needs, whether it’s through pampering yourself with a bubble bath, indulging in your favourite book, or simply enjoying a quiet moment of solitude. Additionally, don’t forget the power of self-less care—helping others and spreading kindness can bring immense joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s volunteering in your community, lending a listening ear to a friend in need, or performing random acts of kindness, giving back enriches both our lives and the lives of others.

5. Gratitude

Practicing gratitude is perhaps one of the most potent tools for cultivating happiness. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, whether it’s the love of family and friends, the beauty of nature, or the simple pleasures of life. Keep a gratitude journal or simply make it a habit to express gratitude aloud each day. By focusing on the abundance in our lives rather than scarcity, we can shift our perspective and embrace a more joyful and fulfilling existence.

Happiness is not a destination but a journey—a journey that we can actively participate in and shape through our daily choices and actions. By incorporating mindfulness, positivity, mental and physical fitness, self-care, self-less care, and gratitude into our lives, we can cultivate a deep and lasting sense of happiness that transcends fleeting circumstances. So, let’s embrace each day with an open heart and a joyful spirit, knowing that true happiness is found within ourselves.

“These videos are fake. It is disturbing to see rampant misuse of technology.”

This was cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar’s reaction to his deepfake video being circulated online.

In the video, Tendulkar can be seen promoting an app called ‘Skyward Aviator Quest’ and even claims that his daughter Sara Tendulkar is earning good money by playing on this application.

Tendulkar is among the innumerable people – celebrities and commoners – who fall prey to this technology.

What is Deepfake?

Deepfake videos, images, and audio are synthetic media created using artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, particularly deep learning. This technology manipulates the original media to make it appear like someone is saying or doing something they never did.

Here’s how it works:

Deepfake technology involves training a deep learning model on a large dataset of a target person’s images, audio, and videos. This model learns the person’s facial features, expressions, and speech patterns. Then, using another set of images, video, and audio data, the model can synthesize new footage where the target person appears to be speaking or acting in a specific way, even if they have never done those things.

Implications of deepfake technology

Deepfake technology, while powerful and innovative, presents a double-edged sword.

For businesses, its potential benefits include creating realistic simulations for training, enhancing customer service interactions through AI-powered chatbots, and personalizing marketing content. At the same time, the ethical and legal risks associated with deepfakes are significant. Malicious actors could use them to damage a company’s reputation through fake videos, launch sophisticated phishing attacks, or cause financial losses by manipulating stock prices. Businesses must be cautious and implement robust strategies to mitigate these risks while exploring the potential benefits of this evolving technology.

Despite their potential for entertainment or creative expression, deepfakes pose significant threats to individuals. They can be weaponized to spread misinformation and propaganda, tarnishing reputations and influencing public opinion. The technology can also be used for malicious purposes like privacy violations, creating embarrassing or damaging content, and even financial scams using voice phishing.

Identifying Deepfake Media

Identifying deepfake media requires keen observation and awareness of subtle cues. Here are some handy tips to look out for in identifying potential instances:
Facial inconsistencies: Notice odd facial expressions, blinking patterns, or unnatural movements.
Lip sync errors: Check for mismatches between spoken words and lip movements.
Lighting irregularities: Examine lighting and shadows for inconsistencies that may indicate manipulation.
Blurred edges: Look for distorted edges around the face, especially near the hairline or chin.
Strange backgrounds: Watch for unusual patterns, reflections, or anomalies in the background.
Audio abnormalities: Listen for glitches, background noise, or changes in voice tone.
Deepfake detection tools: Utilize online tools or software to identify potential deepfake content.

Tips to protect yourself

• Always confirm the identity of people online, especially if they request sensitive information or actions. If someone claims to be a friend or family member, ask them a personal question only they would know to confirm their identity
• Report any suspicious calls to the police or at
• If you suspect a call might be a deep fake or fraudulent, it’s best to end it immediately and report and block that number.
• Do not give out personal information or money to people you do not know or trust.
• Conduct a reverse search of the media shared.

Reporting Deepfake crimes

The Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021 remedies such crimes. Victims are encouraged to report suspicious experiences as a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station or https://cybercrime.gov.in/.

Awareness is critical to fostering a safe and secure online environment

Recognizing the importance of employees in combating cyber threats, AM International conducts regular cyber awareness programs. These modules are curated and led by industry experts.

These sessions equip our team members with the knowledge and tools to stay vigilant and protect themselves and the organization from evolving online threats. Effectively, they empower employees to become an active line of defense against cyber threats.

This proactive approach strengthens AM International’s overall resilience against cybersecurity challenges.

Tuticorin Alkali Chemical and Fertilizers Ltd. (TFL), a group company of AM International, was recently awarded the Unilever Home Care Clean Future Award 2024 for “Taking bold steps towards competitive greenhouse gas reduction in Soda Ash.”

Ashwin Muthiah, Chairman, was invited by Unilever to receive the award in Orlando, USA.

Unilever’s Clean Future initiative aims to recognize “unmissably superior products that are sustainable and of great value.” We are proud that the green soda ash manufactured in our plant aligns with both our ESG-driven manufacturing goals and a strategy to reduce carbon emissions in manufacturing.

TFL was lauded for manufacturing a sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective solution. The initiative of producing the world’s first green soda ash utilizing green ammonia was also recognized asa leap forward to fulfill AMIH’s sustainability goals.

About TFL’s Green Soda Ash

TFL started commercial production of green soda ash at its Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu plant. Mr. Muthiah commended the team’s efforts and said, “It is a matter of great pride to achieve this carbon-neutral milestone. The innovation aligns with our ESG vision of producing greener product solutions for our customers with the larger goal of contributing to a cleaner environment.”

The company has established this project by leveraging cutting-edge carbon-capture technology to establish carbon neutrality in manufacturing soda ash. It is the first company in the world to manufacture carbon-neutral soda ash.

Understanding the Process

To produce green soda ash, TFL set up a CO2 Recovery Plant to capture carbon from coal used as fuel in its boiler for steam production. Instead of releasing the carbon into the atmosphere, the plant captures it effectively. The carbon is then converted into biomass fuel to eliminate fossil fuel usage, thus achieving carbon neutrality in manufacturing.

Further, TFL uses green ammonium, imported from Egypt, to produce its near-zero soda ash. Incidentally, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, Tamil Nadu, successfully handled 3×20 ISO Green Ammonia Containers weighing 37.4 tons of Green Ammonia from Damietta Port, Egypt, for TFL. It was for the first time that the port imported green ammonia.

Fostering a Greener Planet

Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is a fundamental ingredient in numerous industries, from glass production to detergent manufacturing and beyond.

Traditionally sourced from natural deposits or processed through energy-intensive methods like the Solvay process, soda ash manufacturing has historically posed challenges in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Its significance lies not only in its versatility but also in the environmental impact of its manufacture. The sustainable production of soda ash holds the key to minimizing ecological footprints and fostering a greener future.

By developing a basic manufacturing necessity such as soda ash with negligible emissions, TFL is actively shaping the creation of a more environmentally conscious world.

As we enter a new year, people often make resolutions. In the professional sphere, enhancing productivity often tops the list. But as the year progresses, our resolutions and productivity take on a downward trend.

The consequences of decreased productivity are substantial for businesses. There may be delays in projects, missed deadlines, and a decline in the overall quality of products or services. Inefficiencies can also lead to increased costs, affecting the bottom line. Additionally, a drop in productivity may harm the organization’s reputation, impacting customer satisfaction and loyalty.

On the other hand, a productive organization yields many positive benefits that extend across various facets of operations and overall performance. From improved resource utilization to fostering a positive work culture, a productive organization achieves financial success, customer loyalty, and a resilient competitive position in the market.

Good intentions and willpower rarely last the test of time. It is, therefore, crucial to implement actionable and sustainable strategies. At AM International, we believe in a balanced, long-term approach that brings about sustained growth, efficiency, and productivity.

1. Bridge communication gaps

Upholding AM International’s ethos of trust, we believe in transparent communication as the cornerstone of successful collaboration. Misunderstandings can derail even the most meticulously planned project. Without a clear and documented understanding of decisions made during meetings and calls, team members may interpret information differently, leading to confusion, delays, and rework.

How can we combat this? Simple: Written confirmation after meetings and calls. By summarizing key points, action items, and deadlines, we create a single source of truth for everyone involved. This clarity fosters accountability, reduces confusion, and prevents wasted effort clarifying ambiguous verbal exchanges.

2. Plan, plan, plan

Impromptu project starts may seem exhilarating, but they often lead to underestimated timelines and internal frustration. Without thorough pre-project planning, teams may encounter unforeseen challenges, leading to delays and increased stress levels.

To avoid this, prioritize thorough pre-project planning. This entails a detailed breakdown of the project scope, resource allocation, and contingency measures. Invest the time upfront to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project’s demands and potential roadblocks. This proactive approach prevents costly mid-course corrections and fosters a sense of confidence within the team.

3. Correct course in real-time

In the fast-paced world of manufacturing and engineering, unexpected issues can arise. These issues may go unnoticed without regular project reviews until they become significant problems, leading to delays, cost overruns, and decreased team morale.

Regular weekly and monthly project reviews for large projects and daily for smaller ones serve as vital checkpoints. These reviews allow for early identification of deviance, enabling timely course correction before costly errors snowball. This iterative approach saves valuable resources and cultivates a proactive problem-solving culture within the team.

4. Learn from every project

Without a structured process for learning from past projects, valuable lessons may be lost. Teams may repeat mistakes, miss improvement opportunities, and lack a standardized approach to handling similar challenges.

Post-project, a debriefing discussion is important for capturing the learnings. By taking the time to analyze what went well, what could have been improved, and what potential pitfalls were encountered, the team equips itself for future success. Implement these learnings into standardized operating procedures and project templates to streamline future endeavors. This knowledge transfer ensures continuous improvement and injects a sense of purpose into every project, making work not just productive but also joyful.

The key is to foster a culture of clear and constant communication, detailed planning, proactive monitoring, and continuous learning.

Remember, small yet incremental changes, when applied consistently, yield significant results. Let’s make 2024 a year of focused improvement, one well-timed email, one detailed plan, and one insightful debrief at a time.

Sustainability is a key focus area at AM International; it is an integral part of our business strategy and culture. The investments unveiled by our fertilizers businesses led by SPIC, at the Global Investors Meet (GIM) 2024 aligns with our ESG driven ethos at AMIH.

GIM 2024, the business summit organized by Government of Tamil Nadu to facilitate domestic and foreign investments in the state, saw SPIC and its affiliate companies announce CAPEX investments totalling ₹1,900 crore over the next two years. This investment will help move towards sustainable manufacturing, and create additional direct and indirect jobs.

Ashwin Muthiah, Chairman, SPIC & Founder Chairman AMIH, said,
“Our expansion strategy will be mainly supported through brownfield projects. The investments are sustainable and realistic.”

The culture at AMIH is guided by the belief that successful businesses that are sustainable in the long term deliver business profit and social good in equal measure to create a positive impact on society. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the state government underscores our commitment to economic development and sustainable business practices.

SPIC’s expansion plans include a ₹970 crore revamp of its existing urea plant to augment capacity and establish a 150 tonnes per day Green Ammonia plant. This expansion reflects our commitment to bolstering production capacity, diversifying operations, and driving sustainable growth.

Greenstar Fertilizers, a SPIC group company, will invest ₹640 crore in a Water Soluble Fertilizer (WSF) Mixing plant in Chennai, a 2500 MTPA Sulphuric Acid plant, and the refurbishment of DAP I and II plants in Thoothukudi. Notably, this investment marks the establishment of the second WSF facility, following the inauguration of the first plant in Thoothukudi in November 2023, operated entirely by female employees.

WSF play a transformative role in empowering farmers by offering a highly efficient and targeted approach to nutrient delivery, contributing to sustainable and responsible farming practices.

Further, our group company, Tuticorin Alkali Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd (TFL) is allocating ₹290 crore to establish a Soda Ash and Ammonium Chloride Plant in Thoothukudi. TFL achieved a significant milestone in 2023 by becoming the first company to manufacture Green Soda Ash and Green Ammonium Chloride at its Thoothukudi plant.

Across the three businesses, intertwining profitability with social and environmental responsibility, we aim to foster a sustainable and inclusive future.

As we move forward, our focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives remains steadfast.