The four-day Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability (GCPRS) kicked off today at the Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, withNivedita Shukla Verma, Secretary, Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, inaugurating the conference as the Chief Guest. Smt. Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary of the Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, graced the event as the Guest of Honor. Prominent attendees included AIPMA President Shri Manish Dedhia, CPMA President Shri Kamal Nanavati, AIPMA Governing Council Chairman Shri Arvind Mehta, GCPRS 2024 Chairman Shri Hiten Bheda, and other industry leaders.

In her keynote address, Smt. Nivedita Shukla Verma lauded the efforts of the AIPMA and the CPMA for organizing a conclave on such a critical issue. She noted that only ten percent of the global plastic waste is recycled and emphasized the plastic industry's significant role in the economy and employment. She highlighted the necessity of a concerted and collaborative effort across sectors to address plastic waste management.

Verma detailed the government's initiatives, such as the Plastic Waste Management Rules introduced in 2016, which include extended producer responsibility, stricter recycling mandates, and bans on specific single-use plastics. She also underscored the importance of organizations like CIPET and DCPC in implementing these regulations and stressed the urgency of transitioning to a sustainable circular economy.

Mercy Epao reiterated the support of the Ministry of MSME, noting that many plastic industry enterprises fall under their jurisdiction. She announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art export center in Hyderabad as part of their 100-day program to double exports. She encouraged stakeholders to take advantage of the benefits extended by the Ministry and mentioned the development of additional technology centers.

Arvind Mehta, AIPMA Governing Council Chairman, emphasized the support from several central government ministries, including the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Swachh Bharat Mission, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of MSME, and the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.

India's plastic recycling industry is on a growth trajectory, expected to reach $6.9 billion by 2033, with a robust existing recycling rate of approximately 60%. This conference aims to address critical issues in plastic waste management and drive forward India's commitment to managing plastic waste.

CPMA President Shri Kamal Nanavati emphasized the global nature of plastic waste management and the need for collaboration among all value chain participants and the government. He highlighted the GCPRS as a platform for dialogue and the development of solutions, with the Indian industry actively working towards improved plastic circularity.

Arvind D. Mehta, Chairman of the Technology and Entrepreneurship Center (AMTEC), spoke about preparing skilled professionals for India’s advancing plastic industry. He expressed pride in their achievements and stated that the conclave would be a milestone for those involved in the sector, opening new pathways for progress.

The conclave, jointly organized by the All India Plastics Manufacturers' Association (AIPMA) and the Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturers' Association (CPMA), focuses on the increasing use of plastic, its environmental impact, and the necessary steps for sustainable solutions. Businesses and experts from across the country will participate over the four days.

Aligned with India's zero waste goal, the GCPRS showcases innovative recycling technologies, sustainable options like biodegradable and compostable plastics, and efficient waste management solutions. The event provides a platform for industry leaders, startups, and environmental experts to share advancements and insights on achieving sustainability in the plastic industry.

Significant for businesses involved in plastic recycling, machinery manufacturing, plastic waste management, biopolymer and compostable product manufacturing, raw material supply, and startup entrepreneurship, the GCPRS will also feature a CEO-level roundtable on July 4 and panel discussions on July 5 and 6 covering plastic waste recycling in industries such as automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.