Zoil launches US3m waste treatment plant

Managing Ghana’ s Oil waste has been given a boost with the commissioning of a three million United States dollar Anaerobic Thermal Desorption Unit (ATDU) by Zoil Services Limited in the Western Region.

The waste treatment facility would help in contributing to the protection of the environment and life through the provision of industry tested waste management services to oil companies in the country.

Dr. Kenneth Asamoah Boateng, General Manager of Zoil Services Limited, at the commissioning, said the waste plant was capable of handling and treating up to eight tones of drilling waste per hour, adding that, the facility had the potential to utilize indirect heat and negative pressure to separate organic contaminants from oil waste.

He said the facility was the first of its kind in Ghana and could manage and treat waste from crude oil tankers, drill cuttings, oily sludge, filter cakes, engine and hydraulic oil, kitchen and galley grease and soil contaminated with poly-aromatic hydrocarbons.

Nana Kobina Nketsiah IV, Omanhene of Essikado Traditional area, who chaired the ceremony, was happy that the company was wholly Ghanaian owned and entreated the company to let their activities influence the lifestyle of their operating communities positively.

Mr. John Peter Amewu, Board Chairman of the Company said the company was positioned to contribute to protecting the natural environment to make the oil resource more of a blessing than a curse.

Mr. Paul Evans Aidoo, Western Regional Minister said the indigenous nature of the company meant that with the right resources and the enabling environment, businesses could grow and compliment government’s effort at socio-economic advancement.

He, therefore, urged the company to adhere to all regulations: “I wish to urge you not to distant or disconnect yourself from the marine laws, regulations and those of the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure that you continue to raise high the flag of Ghana.”

The Regional Minister also encouraged them to establish their headquarters in the Shama District to ensure effective collaboration and communication. Nana Akosua Gyamfiaba 11, Paramount Queen mother of the Shama Traditional Area was grateful to the company for bringing their operations to the area, which had the potential to change the socio-economic life of the people.

The Queen mother however requested that the company, together with others operating in the area, provide a police station, health post, school and teachers quarters and provide skills training to the youth to better their lot.