Parallel Sessions

Material Recovery Facilities and Material Recovery Centres - Way Forward

Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and Material Recovery Centres (MRCs) play an important role in sustainable waste management by facilitating the systematic sorting, processing, and recycling of waste materials

This session focused on the operational dynamics of MRFs and MRCs, exploring both opportunities and challenges in their implementation. Experts and industry leaders shared insights into innovative strategies for improving efficiency, financial sustainability, and technological advancements in waste recovery processes. The discussions highlighted the importance of integrating MRFs into the broader waste management framework to enhance resource recovery and support circular economy initiatives. A significant focus was placed on aligning MRF operations with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) targets, ensuring greater accountability from producers and recyclers.

The session, led by the Swachh Bharat Mission – Gramin (SBM-G) Government of Gujarat, provided a platform to exchange knowledge, best practices, and collaborative solutions for strengthening MRF and MRC operations across different regions. Through shared experiences, policy recommendations, and successful case studies, the session aimed to identify actionable steps for optimising material recovery efforts and fostering a more efficient and sustainable waste ecosystem.

 

 

Speakers

Shri Kartikeya V Sarabhai,
Director, Centre for Environment Education

Ms Manisha Chandra,
IAS, Pr. Secretary CRD & SBM-G, Government of Gujarat

Mr Saurabh Kumar,
CSR Head, Hyundai Motor India Foundation

Mr Suraj Nand Kumar,
Founder Director, RECITY

Mr Deepak Sahoo,
Director, Recycling Hub

 

Mr Dharmendra Parekh,
Scientist & Director, Debrisolve Private Limited

 

Mr Manish Kothari,
MD, Rhino Machines Pvt Ltd

 

 

Key Recommendations from the Session

  • Promote localised MRF operations, upgrade sorting and recycling technologies, and implement data-driven traceability systems for efficient waste tracking.
  • Foster collaboration between government, private sector, and startups, leverage CSR funding for MRF development, and introduce policy incentives to encourage sustainable waste management investments.
  • Support R&D for low-value plastic waste utilisation, develop scalable pilot projects, and integrate advanced recycling technologies for improved material recovery.
  • Enhance waste segregation at source, provide training programmes for waste workers, and encourage community-led solutions like Bartan Banks to reduce single-use plastics.

 

 

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