Revolutionizing Waste Management Planning in Indorama Eleme Petrochemical Operational Complex: Promoting Sustainability

The Indorama Eleme Petrochemical Limited (IEPL) in Rivers State, Nigeria, generates a significant amount of waste annually, posing environmental and health risks. This study aimed to revolutionize waste management planning at IEPL by characterizing and classifying wastes, developing a coding system, and identifying sustainable management options. The study revealed that IEPL generates 3115.98 tonnes of waste annually, comprising catalysts, metallic materials, plastic barrels, coke, wood, oil, glass, cooling tower packaging, and other materials. The physical analysis showed that 88.19% of the wastes were solid, while 11.81% were liquid. The majority of the wastes (88.19%) were hazardous, posing significant environmental and health risks. The current waste management practices at IEPL face significant challenges due to the diverse and hazardous nature of the wastes. The study recommended recycling, reuse, incineration, and disposal as the most effective waste management options. Recycling and reuse of wastes could significantly reduce the amount of waste disposed of, while incineration and disposal would ensure safe and environmentally friendly waste management. The development of a 13-digit coding system for each type of waste would facilitate integrated waste management and reduce the risks associated with waste disposal. The study provides a framework for effective waste management planning in petrochemical industries, promoting environmental sustainability and reducing waste-related risks. The findings of this study are significant, as they highlight the need for sustainable waste management practices in industries. The study's recommendations could be adopted by other petrochemical industries, contributing to a reduction in environmental pollution and health risks associated with waste disposal. The study's findings and recommendations align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). This study demonstrates the importance of effective waste management planning in industries, particularly in the petrochemical sector. The study's findings and recommendations provide a framework for sustainable waste management practices, reducing environmental and health risks associated with waste disposal. Keywords: Indorama, Eleme, Petrochemical Limited, Petrochemical sector, hazardous waste, management, codes.