Embracing Plastic Circularity: A Path To Sustainable Future

In a world teeming with discussions about environmental conservation and sustainability, plastic waste management has risen to the forefront of these conversations. Speaking at an event, Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International, commenced his compelling discourse with a personal anecdote that ignited his passion for circularity. Describing a pivotal moment from a family trip over a decade ago, he recounts how his son challenged him to retrieve a discarded chip packet about to be thrown out of the car window. This moment marked the beginning of his journey toward understanding the significance of responsible plastic usage.

George traced the evolution of plastics, dating back to the early 20th century when Bakelite switches made their debut. "Over the years, plastics have become an indispensable part of our lives, from the seats we sit on to the toothbrush we grab each morning," he said.

However, what many overlook is that plastics are not homogenous; they encompass various types, each with its distinct recyclability. George further added that understanding these distinctions is essential for effective waste management. "The sense that packaging is possibly the biggest contributor to plastic consumption is not really true. It contributes to only 1/3rd of it," he stated. Adding to his statement, he said that the remaining 2/3rds permeate various aspects of our lives, from construction to healthcare. To illustrate, he shared his experience as a part of Bisleri, a company committed to providing safe and pure drinking water. Their approach to packaging hinges on functionality, cost-effectiveness and environmental considerations. He drove home the point that plastic can significantly extend the lifespan of a product. Contrary to popular belief, the environmental impact of a discarded plastic item is far less than that of the product it protects. "For instance, a piece of rotting fruit generates five times more carbon footprint than the plastic used to wrap it," he said.

Addressing the criticism often directed towards the mineral water industry, he highlighted the dire need for clean drinking water in India. With a staggering number of villages facing groundwater contamination and urban areas grappling with waterborne diseases, the accessibility and affordability of safe water are paramount. Plastic packaging plays a pivotal role in this context. Delving into the recycling landscape, he stated that nearly 60 per cent of plastic waste in India gets recycled. This statistic showcases a glimmer of hope, indicating that circularity is not a distant dream.

However, to move from the current 60 per cent to a resounding 90 per cent requires a multifaceted approach. He outlined two fundamental aspects for the next wave of plastic circularity: behavioural change and circularity investments. George noted that in order to encourage behavioural change, it is important for consumers to understand the value of used plastic and take responsible disposal measures. Simultaneously, the country needs to establish circularity investments, creating recycling infrastructure across regions. This would ensure that recycling is not only efficient but also widespread.

In terms of innovation, he highlighted the potential for upcycling plastic into value-added products. "By converting plastic waste into usable items, such as clothing, the industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint," he stated. Some designers are already adopting recycled plastic into fashion, setting the stage for a sustainable shift in consumer preferences.

George acknowledged the pivotal role of the government in driving plastic circularity. He commended recent initiatives, such as plastic waste management rules and extended producer responsibility policies. He also mentioned the restriction on importing used plastic, promoting the use of domestic resources. George reiterated that achieving plastic circularity requires collective effort. Consumers, industries and governments must work in tandem to usher in a sustainable future. By educating the younger generation about the value of plastics and embracing responsible plastic use, we can pave the way for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.