Davit Songulashvili: Industrial Facilities Are Actively Implementing Purification Systems, Which Will Minimize Environmental Impact
Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Davit Songulashvili, visited “Rustavi Azot” – the only enterprise in Georgia that produces mineral fertilizers. The majority of the company’s products are exported to over 15 countries across the EU, South America, Asia, and Africa.
During the visit, the Minister observed the production process and recent technological upgrades. He toured workshops, a new wastewater treatment facility, a condensation power plant, and received information on the modern technologies introduced to reduce environmental impact.
It is noteworthy that “Rustavi Azot” operates under the environmental conditions stipulated in the permit issued by the Ministry. Since 2022, the plant has been integrated into the electronic air monitoring system (airMonitoring), which provides continuous instrumental self-monitoring of emissions. This system allows the Environmental Supervision Department to conduct real-time monitoring of harmful emissions from the facility.
“Improving air quality, particularly in industrial zones, is one of the Georgian Government's key priorities. It is important that, in recent years, cooperation between the state and major enterprises, along with new environmental legislation, has yielded tangible results. Industrial facilities are actively implementing modern technologies and purification systems, which will minimize environmental impact,” said Minister Davit Songulashvili.
According to Levan Jgharkava, Head of the Environmental Supervision Department, “Rustavi Azot” is a clear example of how large-scale industrial production can coexist with environmental responsibility.
“As a result of tightened regulations, ministry-led reforms, and our department’s regular inspections, 15 enterprises operating in Rustavi are now connected to the electronic emission self-monitoring system. This plays a crucial role in preventing and reducing environmental pollution from the industrial sector,” said Levan Jgharkava.
Currently, the process of installing continuous air emission monitoring systems is actively underway across the country. A total of 36 major enterprises have already implemented the system.
Minister Davit Songulashvili was accompanied by Deputy Minister Kakha Kakabadze, State Representative in Kvemo Kartli Levan KharaBashvili, and Rustavi Mayor Nino Latsabidze.
