Plastic Waste Crisis: Women Entrepreneurs Lead the Charge

Chennai's DPurpose Foundation, led by Desika Prabakar and Obulaxmi S., has initiated 'Waste2Purpose,' a 10-part series focused on transforming problematic waste streams into valuable resources. The inaugural event zeroed in on non-recyclable plastics, a significant environmental challenge. The foundation's core mission is to develop scalable, revenue-generating waste-to-value projects while prioritizing the upskilling and employment of women within the circular economy framework.

The 'Waste2Purpose' roundtable convened conservancy workers, government officials, industry leaders, and investors to explore advanced technological solutions for recycling difficult plastics. Rajeshwari, a conservancy worker, shared firsthand accounts of the daily challenges faced by ground-level waste handlers. The initiative seeks to overcome the common pitfall of installed recycling machines falling into disuse due to a lack of technical expertise and consistent investment.

Advanced recycling technologies like pyrolysis and chemical recycling were presented, with Thaal Innovations emerging as a finalist for its innovative method of converting PU foam waste into polyol. This successful pitch, along with another shortlisted finalist, will now proceed to structured implementation and funding stages under the 'Waste2Purpose' umbrella. Future events in the series will address textile, hazardous, and organic wastes.