Waste Management
Why is this Important?
Waste management is a crucial issue that affects the environment, economy, and society. In particular, the electricity generation industry, which often produces various types of waste, such as ash, wastewater, and hazardous waste. Effective waste management is not only a legal requirement but also a means of minimizing environmental impact and maintaining ecological balance. These efforts enhance the organization’s reputation and demonstrate commitment to sustainability in all its dimensions. Moreover, waste management presents opportunities for business growth and the fostering of environmentally friendly innovations. By implementing modern technologies and efficient processes for waste reduction and recycling, the company can reduce waste management costs and extract additional value from residual resources. Building collaboration with stakeholders, both inside and outside the organization, and encouraging employee participation in waste management are essential to fostering understanding and engagement in sustainable practices. These elements are crucial to achieving successful waste management and ensuring long-term sustainability.
EGCO Group recognizes the environmental challenges and is committed to managing resources and waste efficiently by applying the circular economy concept in its production processes. The focus is on reducing waste generation at the source and using resources more effectively to address both resource and environmental issues in the long term.
The use of advanced technologies and innovations is a key part of the strategy to minimize waste and maximize the value derived from waste. This approach not only helps mitigate the risks associated with resource scarcity and reduce environmental impact but also lowers waste management costs.
EGCO Group believes that the Circular Economy Concept is the most sustainable and efficient approach to resource and waste management, both now and in the future. It supports sustainable development and adds long-term value for both the organization and society.
Sustainability Material Topic: Waste & Hazardous Waste Management
Stakeholder Impact on Material Topics
Creditors
Management Approach
Waste Management Target
Long Term Target
- Zero hazardous waste directed to landfill and incineration without energy recovery
- Zero non-hazardous waste directed to landfill and incineration without energy recovery
2024 Targets
2024 Performance
EGCO Group follows the 3Rs Waste Management Principle, namely Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, to minimize the amount of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes generated from the organization’s operation to a minimum. Wastes are managed systematically through segregation, collection, transportation, and disposal, supplemented by waste audits to identify opportunities for improving waste performance, such as record examinations, facility walk-throughs, and waste sorting. Data are collected and reported through the waste management data collection system. Waste data, including waste diversion from landfills, is verified by a third party and certified by an independent, accredited body as part of ISO 14001. (For third-party verification, please see the independent assurance opinion statement for GRI 306-4 Waste diverted and GRI 306-5 Waste directed to disposal.) In 2024, PAJU ES achieved “Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWTL)" with silver grade, certified by the global certification company, UL Solutions. Additionally, a review of waste management approaches and auditing of waste treatment and disposal contractors has been conducted on a regular basis to ensure that all operational processes comply with relevant regulations and requirements.
3Rs Principle of Waste Management
Reduce
(think before use)
Reducing current usage or optimizing the number of materials used means minimizing the amount of waste generation, e.g., using handkerchiefs instead of tissue paper. Action plans to reduce waste generation are continuously developed and implemented, focusing on optimizing resource usage and minimizing waste at every stage of operations.
Reuse
(use again and again)
Reusing is the most efficient way to utilize resources by using items multiple times. Some materials may be reused several times e.g. water bottle can be reused as a flower vase.
Recycle
Recycling involves sorting waste into different categories that can be reused and reintroduced into the production process, helping reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. The integration of recycling programs supports EGCO Group’s goal of minimizing environmental impacts.
EGCO Group has implemented various waste management and environmental initiatives across its operations. One notable project is the EGCO Ecosystem, which has been expanded to 13 power plants and the Khanom Learning Center. EGCO Group has also supported the proper disposal of electronic waste. In the future, EGCO Group aims to increase recycling rates and improve the separation of orphan waste to be used as fuel for energy production. Additionally, the company implements the “Leaf Fertilizer” project, which recycles organic waste into fertilizer for planting, as well as the “Electronic Waste and Seedling” project to create green spaces in Bangkok.
These initiatives promote proper waste sorting and disposal, with the goal of raising environmental awareness among employees. To further support these efforts, training on waste reduction is provided to all employees, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify and implement effective waste management practices.
Furthermore, EGCO Group has implemented a comprehensive approach to managing fly ash from its power plants, emphasizing innovation and R&D on recycling to minimize environmental impact. They collaborate with Pozzolanic Philippines Inc. (PPI) to reuse fly ash generated at their facilities as raw material for cement and other construction materials. This integration of recycling programs ensures that the waste sent to landfill is dramatically reduced. Moreover, the process not only helps in reducing the amount of fly ash produced but also significantly cuts down on landfill greenhouse gas emissions
At the Khanom Power Plant, a significant initiative is the composting project, which converts organic waste like leaves and grass into compost. This project helps reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers and promotes a more sustainable approach to waste management.
These initiatives reflect EGCO Group's commitment to adhering to the 3Rs principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and showcase their proactive approach in minimizing waste and enhancing sustainability across their operations and communities.
Waste Breakdown from EGCO Building under EGCO ECOSYSTEM Project
2024 Waste Management Report
From January 2024 - December 2024
Reduce waste to the landfill
From January 2024 - December 2024
Increase recycle rate
GHG reduction
GHG reduction equivalent to the number of trees planted
In 2024, a minor oil spill occurred in the waterway at the Nam Theun 2 Power Plant (NTPC), caused by the deterioration of equipment in the Joint Deflector system. The responsible team immediately took action to resolve the issue and prevent recurrence by replacing the deteriorated equipment and using oil-absorbent materials to remove the oil stain and prevent further leakage.
Following the incident, the company has implemented improvements to its processes and measures. This includes conducting more thorough inspections of equipment and related systems, to ensure their readiness, reviewing emergency response plans, and providing training to enhance knowledge and preparedness for handling future incidents.
Related Projects
Waste and Hazardous Waste Management
EGCO Group recognizes the environmental challenges and focuses on reducing waste generation at the source and using resources more effectively to address both resource and environmental issues in the long term.
View ProjectRelated Documents
Policies, Requirements and Performance
-
Sustainability Manual
Performance Data
Updated as of May 2025
The information reported above was prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative Standards (GRI Standards). It has been audited by an external party and has received limited assurance through the 2024 Annual Report.