Industry leaders, policymakers, and technology providers gather to advance plastic recycling, circular economy solutions, and sustainable waste management practices.
The 3rd Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability (GCPRS 2026) commenced at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, recyclers, and technology providers to discuss innovative solutions for plastic waste management and circular economy development. The four-day event is widely recognized as one of India’s leading platforms dedicated to plastic recycling and sustainability.
Organized jointly by the All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) and the Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturers Association (CPMA) with support from the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), the conclave aims to promote collaboration across the plastics value chain while showcasing the latest advancements in recycling technologies and sustainable materials.
Inaugurating the event, Tejveer Singh, Secretary, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, emphasized the need for coordinated global action to address the growing challenge of plastic waste. He highlighted the importance of aligning industry efforts with international initiatives such as the proposed UN Global Plastics Treaty, which seeks to establish common frameworks for plastic production, usage, and waste management.
The Secretary stressed that plastics and plastic recycling should be viewed as a modern, technology-driven and high-value industry capable of contributing significantly to economic growth and environmental protection. He also encouraged greater investment in research and innovation to develop effective solutions for difficult-to-recycle plastic packaging and litter management challenges.
A key theme of the conclave is the transition towards a circular economy, where plastic materials are recovered, recycled, and reused to minimize waste and reduce dependence on virgin raw materials. Industry stakeholders are showcasing advanced recycling systems, sorting technologies, sustainable packaging solutions, and innovative waste processing methods designed to improve resource efficiency and environmental performance.
The event features participation from more than 400 exhibitors displaying cutting-edge recycling machinery, sustainable materials, and waste management technologies. Organizers expect over 50,000 business visitors, including manufacturers, recyclers, investors, academics, and sustainability professionals from India and international markets.
The conclave also highlights the important role played by informal waste collectors in India’s recycling ecosystem. Speakers emphasized the need to recognize, integrate, and formalize this workforce as part of a comprehensive strategy for improving plastic waste collection and recycling rates across the country.
According to industry estimates presented at the event, the Indian recycled plastics market is projected to reach USD 3.81 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.95%, while the global plastic recycling market is expected to reach USD 80.5 billion by 2033. These projections underscore the increasing importance of recycling technologies and sustainable business models in the future of the plastics industry.
The 3rd Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability is expected to serve as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and policy dialogue, helping accelerate India’s transition toward a more sustainable and circular plastics economy.