“Let us strive for a Green and Sustainable Viksit Bharat. Achieving zero waste and eco-friendly production demands skilled expertise in recycling technologies and sustainable product design,” remarked Shri Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, at the 9th International Conference on Waste to Worth, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
The conference aimed to address pressing waste management challenges through innovation, advanced technologies, and global collaboration. Shri Yadav stressed the significance of a circular economy, advocating for reducing, reusing, and recycling across the product lifecycle. “Waste should be seen as a resource, not a burden,” he said, adding that sustainable practices are key to fostering economic resilience, environmental protection, and social well-being.
Highlighting India’s proactive policies, Shri Yadav discussed the Plastic Waste Management Rules, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, E-Waste Management Rules, and the Motor Vehicle Scrap Policy, all of which are designed to streamline waste management and promote environmentally conscious industrial practices.
Shri Tokhan Sahu, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, emphasized transforming waste challenges into opportunities by adopting innovative approaches. He highlighted the National Circular Economy Framework (NCEF), developed by CII, as a comprehensive roadmap for building smart and sustainable cities, where efficient waste management plays a critical role in India’s urban growth.
Shri Baldeo Purusharth, Joint Secretary (ISD), Department of Economic Affairs, noted India’s progress in circular economy initiatives through innovative practices and grassroots solutions. He encouraged harnessing ideas from diverse sources, including contributions from children and community members, to tackle waste issues.
Masood Mallick, Chairman of CII’s National Committee on Waste to Worth Technologies and Managing Director & CEO of ReSustainability, emphasized the need to decarbonize essential materials like steel, glass, plastics, and concrete, alongside renewable energy, to meet net-zero targets. “Recycling and resource recovery must transform waste into valuable inputs, paving the way for a sustainable future,” he said.
The event also marked the release of the second edition of the National Circular Economy Framework (NCEF), which provides industries with actionable strategies to implement circular economy principles. Prof Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, praised NCEF for its pivotal role in promoting resource efficiency and fostering innovation.
Over 300 delegates, including policymakers, industry experts, international specialists, and academics, participated in the day-long conference. Key discussions revolved around governance, technology adoption, and the transition to a circular economy.
The event also featured an exhibition where ten companies showcased innovative waste-to-worth technologies. By uniting diverse stakeholders, the conference reinforced India’s commitment to emerging as a global leader in sustainable development and circular economy practices.
