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Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability
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.
The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016: 
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.
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Growth of India’s Plastic Recycling Industry:
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