Three Indian printing plants receive WAN-IFRA carbon footprint verification certificate

At the Indian Printers Summit in Delhi, the print production units of Anandabazar Patrika (ABP) Kolkata and The Times of India (TOI) plants in Ahmedabad and Sahibabad (Delhi) received the WAN-IFRA Carbon Footprint Verification Certificate on 15 September 2025.

The certification recognises the three plants for successfully verifying their Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions inventory for the period 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025. The verification was independently conducted under WAN-IFRA’s Carbon Footprint Project in line with the International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE) 3410. The assessment provides limited assurance on the GHG assertion, prepared in accordance with the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1:2018.

By achieving this certification, the plants have demonstrated a clear commitment to transparency and environmental accountability within their print operations.

The verification process involves multiple stages, from forming an internal ECO team to gathering plant-wide data. The audit covers on-site assessments, inter-departmental coordination, and training on footprint measurement. Over two months, teams collect and categorise data, undergo virtual verification reviews, and submit documentation before achieving certification.

Print production, from raw paper to final delivery, remains energy-intensive. Carbon mapping has revealed that electricity consumption and paper sourcing contribute the most to overall emissions. ABP’s Barasat plant has begun quantifying carbon output per tonne of newsprint, allowing precise tracking and reduction targets. TOI’s Ahmedabad and Sahibabad units are advancing renewable energy adoption and greener procurement practices.

Beyond compliance, the effort reflects a growing sense of responsibility within India’s print sector. Plant teams are cutting emissions and operational costs while strengthening trust among readers, partners, and communities. As Mariam Mammen Mathew, CEO of Manorama Online, presented the certificates to the teams.