India stands at a critical juncture in its journey towards sustainable development. With rapid industrialization and urbanization driving an ever-increasing demand for resources, the need for a shift towards a circular economy has never been more urgent. The recent report by experts from Indiaโs G20 Secretariat, Council on Energy Environment and Water (CEEW), RMI, and World Resources Institute (WRI) outlines a comprehensive circularity plan for seven key sectors: solar panels, batteries, steel, construction and demolition, agricultural waste, wastewater, and municipal solid waste. This plan offers a roadmap to reduce waste, maximize resource efficiency, and promote environmental sustainability.
Circularity refers to an economic system designed to eliminate waste and keep products and materials in use for as long as possible. This approach contrasts sharply with the traditional linear economy, which follows a โtake-make-disposeโ model. By adopting circularity, India can significantly reduce its environmental footprint, conserve natural resources, and create economic opportunities.
The addition of new solar capacities to meet Indiaโs nationally determined contribution targets under the Paris Agreement could generate cumulative solar waste of 19 million tonnes by 2050. The report recommends improving product design by using recycled materials, reducing the use of critical minerals, and recycling solar waste. Systematic recycling can meet 20% of the solar PV industryโs demand for aluminium, copper, glass, and silicon, reducing dependence on mining.
With the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, battery waste is a growing concern. Recycling batteries can lower raw material procurement costs by 25-30% and reduce dependence on critical minerals by 15-20%. This not only promotes local production but also reduces environmental impact.
As India urbanizes, the steel demand will continue to rise. Implementing material efficiency in the steel sector can reduce carbon emissions, conserve resources, and enhance quality control. This approach aligns with the principles of a circular economy, ensuring that steel products are reused and recycled efficiently.
The exponential increase in construction and demolition waste poses a significant challenge. India is adding 700-900 million square meters of floor space annually, leading to greater natural resource extraction. By reusing and recycling construction waste, India can reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable urban development.
Managing agricultural waste through circular practices can enhance soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create bioenergy. This approach supports sustainable agriculture and contributes to rural development.
Treating and reusing wastewater can address water scarcity and reduce pollution. Circularity in wastewater management involves recovering valuable resources, such as nutrients and energy, from wastewater streams.
Effective management of municipal solid waste through recycling and composting can reduce landfill use and promote resource recovery. This approach supports cleaner cities and healthier communities.
Indiaโs vibrant startup ecosystem and digital advancements position the country uniquely to revolutionize resource management and accelerate the transition to a circular economy. However, achieving this vision requires collective action from the government, industry, think tanks, and civil society. Policy frameworks, infrastructure development, and public awareness are crucial to embedding circularity at scale.
