India is on the brink of a transformative shift, where sustainability and economic growth are no longer seen as opposing forces but as complementary drivers of progress. As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India has a unique opportunity to tap into & make the most out of its vast resources & technological advancements to lead a sustainable energy revolution. The nation’s emphasis to renewable energy, circular economy principles, and responsible industrial practices is setting the foundation for a greener, self-reliant future & Merino Industries is at the helm of it, leading the industry & setting an example for others to follow.
Merino industries, over the years – has seamlessly integrated sustainability into its core operations. Through renewable energy adoption, ethical sourcing, and green manufacturing, the laminates major has emerged as a leader in sustainable energy initiatives. For Merino, sustainability is a deeply embedded philosophy that drives innovation, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, thus transcending the boundaries of social responsibility. It has become a part of Merino’s fabric of leadership, instead.
Central to Merino’s sustainability efforts is the Nirmal Program, an initiative inspired by the principle of “Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah” – a belief that those who protect the environment will, in turn, be protected. This program aligns with Merino’s vision of “Universal Weal through Trade & Industry,” reinforcing the idea that economic progress and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand. The Nirmal Program is built on the foundation of the five fundamental elements of nature: Soil, Water, Fire, Air, and Space – each playing a crucial role in Merino’s approach to responsible manufacturing.
Through large-scale agroforestry initiatives, Merino distributes over one crore saplings annually, helping restore biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable raw material supply. As a result, certain species of birds have created habitats in the company’s green zones, an ode to the positive impact of these efforts. Water conservation is another key focus area, with efficient rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling ensuring minimal resource wastage. The company has also made significant strides in reducing energy consumption, with 75% of its energy needs now being met through renewable sources such as biofuel derived from agricultural waste, including rice husk and wood scraps. Over the past six years, Merino has successfully reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 52% and energy intensity by 56%, demonstrating its commitment to lowering its environmental footprint.
Merino’s sustainability strategy is deeply rooted in the Triple Bottom Line framework, which evaluates the company’s success not merely by financial performance but also by its environmental and social contributions. The company’s focus on responsible sourcing, emission reduction, and renewable energy adoption minimises its ecological footprint. Its agroforestry initiatives support biodiversity & also provide stable income opportunities for farmers, reinforcing the social impact of its work. At the same time, Merino ensures operational excellence and profitability through ethical manufacturing practices that prioritise the well-being of the planet.
The company’s sustainability-driven approach is evident across its operations. Over 295 metric tonnes of organic waste is converted into biocompost annually, reducing landfill impact and promoting soil health. The increased use of electric vehicles is helping to cut down fossil fuel dependency, and a dedicated five-acre bamboo plantation at Garh Mukteshwar is further enhancing biodiversity. The company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, designed to meet Industry 4.0 standards, optimise energy use and maximise efficiency while maintaining the highest sustainability standards.
Mr. Manoj Lohia, Director at Merino Industries, talks about the company’s dedication to sustainable energy, stating, “At Merino, we believe that sustainability is a responsibility and not a choice, anymore. Every initiative we undertake, from energy conservation to waste management, reflects our devotion to creating a greener and healthier planet. Through a focus on reducing fossil fuel dependency, enhancing operational efficiency, and integrating circular economy principles, Merino consistently meets global sustainability standards and statutory requirements when it comes to aligning better sources for its energy needs. With integrations to technology with eco-friendly practices, we are paving the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come.”
Merino’s continued pursuit of sustainable energy solutions serves as a benchmark for industries looking to align profitability with environmental responsibility. As India advances towards a self-sustaining future, the company stands as an example of how industrial progress and ecological conservation can coexist in harmony. On World Sustainable Energy Day, the company reflects & strengthens its emphasis on driving meaningful change, proving that a sustainable future is a reality in the making.
About Merino Industries Ltd.
Merino is a versatile manufacturer and marketer of Interiors Solutions with a wide collection of products for homes, offices, commercial and public areas. Sustainability is at the core of Merino’s strategy as they incorporate practices to minimize wastage and conserve water during production. Merino Group has come a long way since the launch of plywood in 1974 and subsequently with the launch of the high pressure laminates in 1981. Today Merino Group has a beautifully strong presence in over 80 countries with an annual turnover of over 245 million USD with diverse business interests that expand from Interior Architectural products to Information Technology to Food & Agro products. The Group has achieved the current leadership position by following its vision to compete at global level and has adapted the international technology while maintaining Indian ethos.
