**Jaipur**: The 12th International Material Recycling Conference witnesses key discussions on innovations in recycling, India’s sustainability roadmap, and the launch of the ‘Recycling India’ campaign, with government support for a robust circular economy and zero customs duty on non-ferrous scrap materials.
The 12th International Material Recycling Conference (IMRC) took place from January 28 to 30, 2025, at the Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, positioning itself as a significant platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in the recycling sector to discuss challenges and innovations. Organised by the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI), the conference focused on advancing India’s commitment to a circular economy and sustainable resource practices.
Sanjay Mehta, the President of MRAI, opened the conference by aligning its objectives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE, emphasising the importance of becoming “Pro-Planet People”. In his keynote address, Mehta noted, “Changing the world begins with changing ourselves. Recycling, when done thoughtfully, can reduce the strain on nature. We must start at home, in offices, and in factories by practicing proper segregation.” Amar Singh, the Secretary General of MRAI, echoed this sentiment, reflecting on the emergence of transformative ideas that could strengthen sustainable resource management.
The conference also featured presentations from government officials, notably Naresh Pal Gangwar, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), who outlined the government’s sustainability roadmap. He stated, “Achieving India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2040 requires manifold growth in GDP, increased consumption, and efficient management of material resources.” Similarly, Vinod Kumar Tripathi, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Steel, affirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the recycling ecosystem, advocating for education, awareness campaigns, and the adoption of circular economic principles within the industry.
International perspectives were also shared. Major General K. Narayanan from Niti Aayog highlighted the critical role of innovation and cooperation in maximising India’s recycling potential. Dr. Soumya Gurjar, Mayor of Jaipur, called attention to the need for greater inclusion of women entrepreneurs, commending Prof. Bineesha P. for her contributions to the sector. Additionally, Robin Wiener, President of ReMA, praised MRAI’s advocacy efforts, while Arnaud Brunet and Susie Burrage OBE from the Bureau of International Recycling discussed the challenges presented by evolving European Union regulations regarding shipping.
In a notable development, Dhawal Shah, Senior Vice President of MRAI, proposed a nationwide campaign dubbed ‘Recycling India’, aimed at increasing awareness and opportunities within the sector. Shah commented, “Our vision is to see India emerge as a global leader in sustainable resource management.” Zain Nathani, Vice President of MRAI, underscored the industry’s impact on carbon emissions and steel production, advocating for enhanced support for the Vehicle Scrappage Policy and the promotion of recyclable materials.
Significantly, the Government of India has enacted a zero percent customs duty on non-ferrous scrap, a decision praised as a breakthrough for the recycling industry by MRAI’s president. This exemption encompasses essential materials like lead, zinc, copper, and lithium-ion battery scrap, fostering a robust circular economy and boosting India’s sustainable manufacturing capabilities.
The recent Union Budget for 2025 further complements this initiative, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman identifying exports and imports as crucial economic drivers. The zero-duty policy is expected to enhance manufacturing competitiveness and facilitate more accessible raw materials. It aims to transform the Indian recycled metal market, projected to grow from USD 28.9 million in 2023 to USD 38.0 million by 2030.
Moreover, the budget introduces mandates for a minimum recycled content in non-ferrous metal products, targeting specific percentages for aluminium, copper, and zinc by the fiscal year 2031. MRAI has urged further reforms, including the removal of customs duty on aluminium scraps and other related materials, to reinforce recycling efforts.
In concluding remarks, Amar Singh reiterated MRAI’s ongoing commitment to influencing policy, highlighting recent successes in ensuring scrap imports adhere to specifications. The ongoing collaboration between MRAI and the government signifies an evolving framework aimed at enhancing compliance and transparency in the recycling sector.
As the conference convened a diverse group of 2,500 delegates, including 400 international participants and 200 exhibitors, the event solidified its role in shaping India’s sustainable recycling landscape, as the nation moves toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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