#India #New Delhi #Eco-Friendly #circular economy #Waste Management

9th International Conference on Waste to Worth

On December 2, 2024, the 9th International Conference on Waste to Worth took place in New Delhi, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), focusing on sustainability and the principles of a circular economy. With over 300 delegates from various sectors, this conference provided a platform for industry leaders, government officials, and experts to discuss strategies to transform waste into valuable resources, aligning with the visionary goals of a Green & Sustainable Viksit Bharat.

The Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, opened the conference with a powerful message urging stakeholders to view waste not as a burden but as a resource. He emphasized the importance of skilled workforce development in recycling technologies and eco-friendly product design as crucial steps in achieving zero waste. His passionate speech highlighted the necessity of innovation and adopting sustainable practices, claiming that these efforts are fundamental to fostering both economic resilience and environmental sustainability.

A key initiative introduced at the conference was the unveiling of the 2nd National Circular Economy Framework (NCEF). This framework, developed by CII, aims to assist industries in creating sustainable business models. It encourages conducting lifecycle assessments and adopting circular principles to spur innovation. Notably, Prof. Ajay Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, praised the NCEF, stating it offers actionable strategies for stakeholders to enhance resource efficiency.

In his remarks, Shri Tokhan Sahu, the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, acknowledged the transformative potential embodied in waste-to-worth principles. He urged attendees to turn challenges into opportunities, noting that the NCEF serves as a roadmap for developing smart, sustainable urban environments. He articulated that efficient waste management is pivotal for accelerating urban development goals in India.

Shri Baldeo Purusharth, Joint Secretary (ISD), pointed out India's progress towards a circular economy achieved through innovative practices and global partnerships. He emphasized the importance of grassroots contributions, advocating for solutions to emerge from various sectors and demographics, including children and those without formal qualifications. He stated, “Solutions for waste-to-worth can come from anywhere, and we need systems to harness this collective ingenuity.”

Significantly, Masood Mallick, Chairman of CII's National Committee on Waste to Worth Technologies & Managing Director/CEO of ReSustainability, underscored that reaching net-zero goals requires advanced strategies beyond mere reliance on renewable energy. He described the imperative focus on decarbonizing essential materials such as steel, glass, plastics, and concrete through innovative recycling practices. His assertion that “These efforts will transform waste into valuable inputs for building a sustainable future” encapsulates the conference's essence.

The event also celebrated excellence in waste-to-worth practices through the 5th edition of the CII 4R Awards, awarding nearly 50 companies for their exceptional contributions to waste transformation, highlighting leaders like Schindler India Pvt Ltd, Blue Planet Environmental Solutions India Pvt Ltd, and EverEnviro Resource Management Pvt Ltd.

Throughout the day, dynamic discussions took place on topics ranging from governance in circular economy transitions to emerging technologies and sustainable growth opportunities. The exhibition showcased ten companies demonstrating innovative technologies and practical applications of circular economy principles. The collaborative atmosphere and shared dedication to sustainability reinforced India's commitment to becoming a global frontrunner in sustainable development initiatives.

This conference not only addressed current waste management challenges but also ignited further discussions on innovative solutions and partnerships needed to move towards a greener future, marking a crucial step towards implementing sustainable practices across industries in India.