The 2nd Conclave organized by the Tyre and Rubber Recyclers Association of India (TRRAI) gathered policymakers and industry leaders to discuss challenges and opportunities following the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy in India.

Key topics included the need for compliance with EPR guidelines, technological advancements, and collaboration between recyclers and tire producers.

Ved Prakash, Director at the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, emphasized the importance of formalizing the recycling industry and adopting advanced technology. He also stressed the critical role of maintaining credibility in generating EPR certificates.

Anand Kumar, Director of the Central Pollution Control Board, proposed creating a dedicated industrial park for tire producers and recyclers to promote circularity and compliance with EPR objectives. Rajasthan, the first state to restrict batch-type pyrolysis plants, is now focusing on upgrading existing facilities to advanced continuous-type plants.

The Indian tire recycling industry has seen significant advancements, with increased investment in innovative machinery and technology upgrades. Chetan Joshi of TRRAI highlighted that Indian recyclers are now adopting energy-efficient technologies, enhancing their global standing. However, recyclers must now move beyond traditional products like oil and recovered carbon black (RCB) and develop niche, high-end products for the tire industry.

TRRAI President Satish Goyal urged recyclers to use EPR funds to further upgrade their technology and warned against non-compliance, stating that penalties would be imposed on defaulters.

To learn more about the event and its results, read the original article.