Home / Environment / Beyond Tech: Indian Waste Solutions Depend on Us
Beyond Tech: Indian Waste Solutions Depend on Us
18 Jan
Summary
- Technology alone cannot solve India's waste crisis.
- Behavioral change and source segregation are crucial.
- Traditional practices offer lessons for circular economy.
India's approach to waste management is evolving, integrating behavioral changes with technological innovations. Advanced chemical recycling and biorefinery models are being explored to address the nation's waste challenges. However, experts at the International Recycling Incubation Summit (IRIS) 2026 highlighted that technological progress alone is insufficient.
Solid waste management expert Shailshree Tewari stressed that poor waste segregation at the source undermines recycling and composting efforts. She pointed to the wisdom of traditional practices where waste was composted and materials were reused, advocating for a return to these responsible consumption habits.
Ultimately, successful waste management and the transition to a circular economy in India depend on public engagement and a shift in individual behavior. This includes adopting practices like source segregation and mindful consumption, complementing the advancements in recycling technology.
