In a significant step towards sustainable waste management, the central government has announced financial support for startups focused on recycling waste. Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav revealed that the government will be providing one-time financial assistance to these startups to help address the increasing waste problem across the country. This initiative is part of a broader plan to promote energy and water conservation, along with banning single-use plastics.
Yadav shared these details after participating in a beach cleanup drive at Juhu Beach, Mumbai, as part of the International Coastal Cleanup Day celebrations. He emphasized the importance of recycling and stressed that while people are good at using natural products, they often overlook the importance of proper waste disposal and recycling.
Tackling India’s Growing Waste Problem
India, with its rapid urbanization and increasing population, is generating waste at an alarming rate. According to a report by Bloomberg, Indian cities produce around 42 million tons of waste every day, which is about one-third more than Europe. Despite these massive numbers, waste segregation and proper disposal remain significant challenges. The government estimates that with better waste management, the country could generate up to 5 gigawatts of electricity from waste—a figure that is 30 times the current capacity.
To address these issues, the government’s latest initiative aims to support startups that focus on waste recycling. This move is expected to encourage innovative solutions in waste management and contribute to a cleaner environment.
One-Time Financial Aid for Recycling Plants
Under the new guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment, startups will receive financial assistance to set up plants for recycling discarded fishing gear and plastic waste, particularly in coastal areas. The scheme will focus on setting up recycling units near the country’s 12 ‘Blue Flag’ certified beaches—beaches that meet high environmental standards.
A total of 25 recycling plants will be established, including 13 for nylon fishing gear and 12 for plastic waste. The funding will cover the cost of plant and machinery, though it will not include land, construction, or other related expenses.
For plastic waste recycling units, startups will receive Rs 19 lakh per tonne of production capacity or 40% of the plant cost, with a maximum limit of Rs 38 lakh. For nylon fishing gear recycling plants, the subsidy will be Rs 24 lakh per tonne or 40% of the plant cost, capped at Rs 48 lakh. The cost will be shared between the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the project proponent in a 40:60 ratio.
Boosting Tourism Through Coastal Cleanliness
In addition to waste management, the initiative also aims to promote cleaner coastlines, which could help boost tourism. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted the importance of maintaining cleanliness along the state’s 720-km coastline. He pointed out that clean beaches attract tourists, which could greatly benefit the economy.
The coastal cleanliness drive, which started on September 17 at Girgaon Chowpatty, is set to continue until October 2. The initiative, which combines waste management and tourism, is expected to play a crucial role in preserving the beauty of India’s beaches while addressing the pressing issue of waste disposal.
