SEPTEMBER, 202419In a recent interaction with Industry Outlook, Thimmaiah NP, CEO & MD, Manjushree Technopack, shared his views on how companies are tackling the challenges of developing fully circular packaging systems that minimize waste and enhance recycling, the role of bioplastics in circular packaging, and more.INDUSTRY INSIGHTSDRIVING THE SHIFT TOWARDS CIRCULAR ECONOMY & SUSTAINABILITY IN PACKAGINGHow are companies tackling the challenges of developing fully circular packaging systems that minimize waste and enhance recycling, what role do bioplastics play in circular packaging, and how do they contribute to the circular economy and sustainability?Plastic has long been lauded for its versatility in its packaging. However, its environmental impact specifically owing to single-use products has tarnished the reputation of the industry significantly. It is crucial for educating the public on distinguishing environmentally friendly practices from harmful products. Our company specializes in the rigid plastic packaging landscape exclusively and these are 100 per cent recyclable. We want to ensure that such type of packaging is recycled efficiently, which will help in minimizing its environmental footprint.In this sector, we are dedicated to advancing the circular economy. Furthermore, government regulations on plastic waste management will be crucial to foster this circular model. Our aim is to collect the rigid plastic packaging that we manufacture and distribute and ensure that it is returned by the end consumers and recycled. We process post-consumer waste through several processes which include sorting, washing, grinding, granulating as well as repurposing it into new packaging and these processes are carried out in our own recycling facility. Our packaging material is recycled and reused within the same cycle and this practice exemplifies circularity. Also, we collaborate with Ganesha Ecosphere which is one of India's largest PET manufacturers. The company handles various processes which include collection, cleaning, as well as the processing of post-consumer PET bottles and these are being incorporated into our rigid plastic packaging. Adoption rates are still lagging despite these efforts and our organization is equipped fully to make use of recycled materials in our products, which in turn helps in promoting circularity.With over 80-85 per cent of PET being recycled & 40-50 per cent of other substrates, India is leading in the recycling of rigid plastic. However, it is still imperative for all the stakeholders such as regulators, brands, manufacturers Thimmaiah NPCEO & MDThimmaiah NP, CEO & MD, Manjushree Technopack
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