Assessment of Flue Gas Emissions in Faisalabad’s Textile Industry: A Comparative Analysis of Fuel Types

This study examines the flue gas emissions originated from various fuel types used in the textile industries of Faisalabad, Pakistan, and their compliance with the Punjab Environmental Quality Standards (PEQS), Pakistan. Data from 109 textile factories revealed significant emission variations based on fuel types. Natural gas was identified as an eco-friendly fuel, with emissions far below the PEQS limits (CO: 334.8 mg/Nm³, SO₂: 175 mg/Nm³, NO_x: 692 mg/Nm³). Moderate fuels such as corncob, wood, and coal exhibited emissions that slightly exceeded PEQS limits but could be mitigated by adopting advanced emission control systems. In contrast, cloth waste exhibited the highest emissions, significantly exceeding PEQS thresholds (CO: 2091.4 mg/Nm³, SO₂: 2978 mg/Nm³, NO_x: 487.5 mg/Nm³), followed by mixed fuels such as wood + cloth waste. Smoke opacity and flue gas concentrations were used to classify the fuels into eco-friendly, moderate, and acute impact categories. Findings underscore the urgent need for the adoption of cleaner fuels, enhanced emission control systems, and stricter regulatory enforcement to mitigate environmental and health impacts in Pakistan's textile sector. This research provides a framework for transitioning to sustainable industrial practices, aligning with global climate action and sustainable development goals (SDGs).