Innovative recycling technologies promise a cleaner, greener future.
In a significant move towards addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution, the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), and Prayas Greentech Private Limited have entered into technology transfer agreements. The collaboration focuses on innovative methods for recycling waste plastics developed by IIT Roorkee faculty member Prof. Prasenjit Mondal.
The technologies, which were field-tested with the support of CO Col Pranav Mishra of the 59 Engineering Regiment Indian Army, offer a low-cost, eco-friendly approach to recycling polyethylene packets. The process involves converting waste plastics into valuable products like trackway planks and systems, utilizing composite materials made from recycled plastics and other waste.
Yash Dua, Director of Prayas Greentech, expressed optimism about the technologies’ potential impact. “We believe these innovations will be instrumental in addressing the problem of plastic pollution, providing a sustainable solution for waste management,” he said. “By recycling waste plastics and creating innovative products, we can reduce emissions, fossil energy use, and environmental harm.”
Prof. Akshay Dvivedi, Dean of Sponsor Research and Industrial Consultancy at IIT Roorkee, emphasized the institute’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and industry needs. “This partnership with Prayas Greentech is a prime example of how IIT Roorkee is working to address critical challenges like plastic waste,” he stated. “These innovative methods not only offer sustainable solutions but also align with economic viability and environmental responsibility.”
IIT Roorkee Director Prof. K.K. Pant highlighted the potential of the technology to significantly reduce waste volume and contribute to a cleaner environment. “We are confident that this collaboration will demonstrate the high efficiency of our recycling technology in converting waste plastic into reusable materials,” he said. “Our approach utilizes advanced methods to process various types of waste plastic, offering substantial reductions in environmental impact.”