Mr. Ajay Sinha, CEO of Feedback Foundation, was invited to present at the ISC FICCI conclave 2023 on 21^st November 2023 at FICCI House, New Delhi. The event showcased an insightful session on the ‘Plastic Circular Cities’ initiative, a collaborative effort spearheaded by Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) in partnership with the India Sanitation Coalition at FICCI (ISC), alongside implementing partners Sampurn(e)arth, Recity, and Feedback Foundation.

This ambitious five-year project aims to provide sustainable waste management solutions to six key cities in Maharashtra, focusing on achieving zero landfill status with a specific emphasis on plastic waste. The identified cities are Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai Virar, Nagpur, Nasik, Pune, and Aurangabad. The project aligns with the government’s vision for a sustainable future, conducting comprehensive research on existing Solid Waste Management plans and inviting private sector collaboration to develop a scalable value chain.

Urban Local Bodies are vital for daily waste management, supporting infrastructure like Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs). Corporations, through CSR or debt funding, are actively building a complete plastic circularity value chain. This involves Behavior Change Communication (BCC) via Information Education Communication (IEC) materials. The partnership targets reducing plastic in landfills, emphasizing recycling, and creating a strong circular economy. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are under exploration, with active efforts to engage partners, including government bodies, in the implementation process.