Last week, graduate students from the Project Management class of 2024 at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Takoradi Campus, visited Zeal Environmental Technologies Ltd. (ZETL) for an educational tour. The visit aimed to provide insights into how ZETL, a leading industrial waste management company in Ghana, integrates sustainability into its operations to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Led by their lecturer, Dr. Phanuel Wunu, the students, who come from various professional backgrounds, engaged in an enriching experience. The ZETL team was headed by Chairman and Founder Mr. Kwaku Ennin, a serial entrepreneur with over 45 years of experience in business management and mentorship.
Mr. Ennin presented on “Sustainability Practices in Business and Project Management,” emphasizing the importance of embedding sustainability into business operations. Using ZETL as a case study, he highlighted key operations and their sustainability impact in helping achieve the United Nations SDGs:
Tank Cleaning Services: ZETL delivers tank cleaning services for Tullow FPSOs, rigs, and supply vessels, supporting the efficient and safe operation of industrial equipment. This aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by enhancing the longevity and efficiency of industrial infrastructure.
Takoradi Port Reception Facility: Since 2010, ZETL has operated this facility in compliance with the IMO MARPOL 73/78 Treaty, promoting responsible marine waste management and reducing ocean pollution, supporting SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
Hazardous Waste Management: ZETL provides comprehensive hazardous waste management services for major clients, ensuring the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials, contributing to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
FPSO Decommissioning Waste Management: ZETL manages waste from FPSO decommissioning for the Ghana National Petroleum Company, ensuring minimal environmental disruption and adherence to safety standards, contributing to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Transboundary Waste Management: ZETL provides transboundary waste management services across several African countries, supporting SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering international collaboration.
Mr. Ennin also discussed ZETL’s Rapid Oil Spill Response and Cleanup services, which provide immediate and efficient oil spill response to mitigate environmental damage and restore affected areas. Additionally, he educated the participants on ZETL’s management of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORMs), crucial for maintaining a sustainable environment.
Furthermore, ZETL demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by minimizing its environmental footprint, enhancing corporate social responsibility, and fostering sustainable communities. This aligns with UN SDGs like SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) through initiatives in waste recycling, resource conservation, and energy efficiency. Additionally, ZETL’s dedication to community and environmental stewardship is reflected in their ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certifications, support for local environmental projects, and allocation of 5% of their revenue to CSR initiatives.
Looking ahead, Mr. Ennin shared ZETL’s future plans, including the establishment of an ultra-modern e-waste management center, the retooling and expansion of ZETL’s laboratory, and innovative research initiatives focused on sustainability. These efforts aim to advance the company’s capabilities while contributing to environmental preservation.
The visit ended with Mr. Ennin highlighting ZETL’s core values of innovation, accountability, and sustainability, which have driven both business success and environmental stewardship. He emphasized ZEAL’s commitment to the UN SDGs, ensuring that ZETL’s waste processing methods are cost-effective and environmentally responsible, reinforcing their dedication to a sustainable future.
The participants had ample time to ask questions, all of which Mr. Ennin answered thoroughly. This educational tour equipped the students with valuable insights and inspiration to incorporate sustainability into their future professional endeavors.
Graduate Students, 2024 Class – GIMPA
Certification
Zeal is certified in the following international standards
ISO 14001:2015_Environmental Management systems
ISO 45001:2018_Health and Safety Management systems