India’s Role in the Global Recycling Ecosystem

India is emerging as a major force in the global recycling ecosystem. With growing urbanisation, a vast supply of post-consumer waste, and ambitious sustainability goals, India’s recycling sector is poised for transformation. However, the real shift is coming from how India is positioning itself not just as a processing hub, but as a technology and innovation leader.

Historically, countries like China dominated the recycling supply chain, but policy changes have redirected global waste flows. India is filling that gap, not just by volume, but by quality. The Indian government’s focus on circular economy models, investment in green technologies, and policies like EPR and Swachh Bharat have laid the groundwork for a future-ready recycling infrastructure.

Additionally, India is no longer just an importer of waste it’s developing its own capacity for high-value recycling and export of recycled raw materials. Indigenous innovation, like Indo Green Enviro’s advanced shredding and sorting solutions, shows how Indian companies are stepping up with world-class technologies.

For CXOs and plant owners, this is a time to invest in capabilities, certifications, and partnerships that align with global best practices. India is not just participating it’s shaping the next generation of global recycling systems.