CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Action Alliance for Recycling Beverage Cartons (AARC) recently hosted a key event in Lucknow, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the crucial role of aseptic packaging in enhancing food safety and promoting sustainability in India’s rapidly growing food sector. The event focused on innovative packaging solutions, waste management, and the expanding circular economy. One of the major themes was the growing preference for beverage cartons as a packaging solution, highlighting their numerous benefits. CEOs from domestic and international companies, senior government officials, and the Vice-Chancellor of Baba Bhim Rao Ambedkar University attended besides lot of WMA’s and recyclers from across the country. The national workshop, where discussions centered on how packaging technologies can drive growth by extending the shelf life of agricultural produce and strengthening product branding. Eight recyclers and waste management agencies showcased the best practices in beverage carton collection & recycling.
The Chief Guest Honorable Minister Shri. Dinesh Pratap Singh (Minister of Department of Food Processing & Horticulture) inaugurated this major national conference on waste management and the circular economy. He addressed the gathering by saying, “By becoming ‘Vocal for Local’, we can make products from Uttar Pradesh famous worldwide, allowing the state’s heritage to become a part of other cultures. Today’s workshop is a step towards this vision. By going beyond compliance and embracing circularity, we can turn waste into assets, promote sustainability, and set a new standard for responsible growth. Let us work together to create a future where our methods not only meet the needs of the present but also safeguard the well-being of future generations.”
Speaking at the event, Shri Atulesh Yadav, Chief Environmental Officer, Government of Uttar Pradesh, commented, “Though regulatory departments often emphasize enforcement, our priority is on offering support in the still-developing EPR framework.”
Cassio Simoes, Chairman, AARC, said, “We are at a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards a circular economy. The integration of sustainable practices in food packaging and waste management is crucial for minimizing waste and conserving resources. Aseptic packaging, in particular, plays a vital role in extending the shelf life of products, reducing food spoilage, and promoting a circular economy. Ensuring that food remains safe and of high quality while also doing right by the planet is at the heart of our mission. Our collective efforts, alongside government initiatives and collaborations with various government agencies, are driving significant progress in recycling and waste management. I am delighted by the fruitful discussions during this session, which I believe will fast-track our collective action towards a more sustainable future for India.”
