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Odisha Plans Plastic Upcycling Policy
6 Oct
Summary
- Odisha aims to convert low-value plastic waste into useful products.
- A new policy will create an ecosystem for waste management and utilization.
- The initiative seeks to reduce landfill dependency and create livelihoods.
The Odisha state government is planning a dedicated Plastic Upcycling Policy to promote a circular economy and reduce the strain of plastic waste on urban local bodies. This initiative was recently discussed during the 13th monthly meeting of ANKUR (Atal Network for Knowledge, Urbanization and Reform).
The proposed policy will focus on converting low-value plastic waste into useful products, preventing them from ending up in landfills. The state is already collaborating with local MSMEs in Bhubaneswar to produce construction materials from discarded plastic. This policy aims to create a comprehensive framework for collecting, processing, and commercially utilizing plastic waste.
Officials highlighted that plastic waste remains a significant challenge for urban local bodies, even with improved waste collection and segregation. The goal is to create economic value from plastic waste through upcycling, thereby reducing landfill dependency and fostering livelihood opportunities. This move addresses the growing issue of single-use and multi-layered plastic waste across Odisha's cities.
Experts noted that plastic upcycling is gaining traction nationwide, with processed plastic used in construction and manufacturing. A state-specific policy could enhance market linkages and encourage private sector involvement in the waste value chain. Odisha has been actively promoting scientific solid waste management and has implemented restrictions on certain single-use plastics, though managing low-value plastic continues to be a challenge.
