Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability

Home Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability

Environment, Ecology and Biodiversity

By The Study IAS

Jul 6, 2024

0
3176

Font size:

Context:

The four-day Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability (GCPRS) focusing on addressing plastic waste management, recycling, and sustainability to promote circularity.

Key Points of the GCPRS:

Jointly organised by All India Plastic Manufacturers Association (AIPMA) and Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturers’ Association(CPMA), focusing on plastic use, environmental impact, and solutions.
Showcases innovative recycling technologies, sustainable options like biodegradable and compostable plastics, and efficient waste management solutions highlight the need for global collaboration.
Only ten percent of global plastic waste is recycled, the plastic industry significantly contributes to the economy and employment.
Emphasises the need for concerted and collaborative efforts across sectors to curb plastic pollution.
Establishes the Technology and Entrepreneurship Center (AMTEC) for manpower and skill enhancement in the plastic manufacturing sector.
Mentions the Plastic Waste Management Rules of 2016, mandating extended producer responsibility, stricter recycling packages, and banning specific single-use plastics.
- Acknowledges the role of Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET) and Department of Chemical and Petrochemical (DCPC) in implementing these rules.
Stresses the importance of transitioning to a sustainable circular economy due to tightening global environmental regulations.

Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability

The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016:

It requires plastic waste generators to minimise its generation, avoid littering, ensure segregation at the source, and hand over segregated waste as per regulations (Extended Producer Responsibility).
The rules mandate the responsibilities of local bodies, gram panchayats, waste generators, retailers and street vendors to manage plastic waste.

Support from MSME and Other Ministry:

The Ministry supports plastic recycling and sustainability initiatives.
Many plastic industry enterprises fall under the MSME department.
Plans for a state-of-the-art export centre in Hyderabad as part of their 100-day program.
Urged stakeholders to utilise benefits extended by the Ministry.
Support from Central Ministries: Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Housing and Urban Affairs; Swachh Bharat Mission; Commerce and Industry; Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises; Chemicals and Fertilisers.

Indian Government Initiative to Control Plastic Waste:

Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016: Increased minimum thickness of plastic carry bags from 40 to 50 microns.
2018 Amendment: Phased out non-recyclable multilayered plastic (MLP).
2021 Amendment: Banned single-use plastics (SUP) like earbuds, balloon sticks, plastic flags, etc., effective July 1, 2022. Increased plastic carry bag thickness to 75 microns (Sept 2021) and 120 microns (Dec 2022).
Blanket Ban: Prohibited plastic sachets for pan masala, gutkha, and tobacco.
2022 Amendment: Introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines mandating recycling, reuse, and use of recycled plastic. Categorised plastics into rigid packaging, flexible packaging, multilayered packaging, and plastic sheet packaging.

Growth of India’s Plastic Recycling Industry:

India’s plastic recycling industry is rapidly growing and is expected to reach $6.9 billion by 2033.
Government initiatives and a robust existing recycling rate of approximately 60% demonstrate the country’s commitment to managing plastic waste.