India's recycling industry body, MRAI, recommends sustainable production and consumption by boosting recyclable materials, effective waste management, and adopting scientific recycling methods
A call for increased emphasis on recycling has been voiced at MRAI's annual international conference and exhibition in Kolkatta, which has attracted some 2,000 delegates from more than 35 countries and 200 exhibitors.
Themed 'Recycling Industry Transition Towards Vision 2047,' the three-day event features detailed deliberations to evolve a roadmap to help the nation achieve its 'Vision 2047,' of moving to sustainable consumption and production patterns and minimising environmental degradation.
Adopting sustainable production
‘2024 will be the year in which India's newly introduced reforms will propel it into a growth trajectory exceeding 8 percent to cross $4 trillion [EUR 3.6 trillion] GDP', says MRAI president Sanjay Mehta. 'At the same time, climate change, pollution, and dwindling natural resources are the major challenges that certainly require resource efficiency and the promotion of the circular economy.
Therefore, India needs to adopt sustainable production and consumption with [mandatory] minimum content of recyclable material, effective waste management, and a scientific way of recycling.'
Mehta believes that India has great potential to lead the world in recycling, thanks to its large population and growing awareness of the importance of sustainability. The recycling industry in India not only creates jobs but also helps reduce the impact of waste on the environment and contributes to economic growth.
The MRAI conference will focus on various topics related to the circular economy, net zero emissions, raw material security, zero import duties on non-ferrous metal scrap, and innovative technology.