CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Thiruvananthapuramwill be responsible for the overall coordination of the project. Furthermore, the project will consist of a consortium of eight partnering CSIR labs and industry partners.
N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and CSIR Director General, launched the initiative at NIIST.
As packaging plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of products during handling, transportation or storage,the aim of the missionis to develop solutions for sustainable packaging demands, including development of packaging materials, state-of-the-art recycling and reuse methods. Eventually, the initiative aims to transform the packaging industry into smart, affordable and reliable using advanced testing and monitoring facilities.
CSIR Director General opines, “CSIR has decided to take up this initiative as packaging has mostly been neglected with regard to concerted R&D efforts in channelising scientific advancements towards sustainable and comprehensive solutions.”
A big team of researchers and industry experts will be working dedicatedly on the project to propel the project forward. On the sidelines of the project, we will also see the establishment of the country’s pioneering biodegradability testing and monitoring centre.
Earlier, with the new Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024 coming into effect, Industry experts believe that big FMCG players like Britannia, Colgate and Nestle will push up packaging costs, while on the other hand, firms like Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL), ITC, Jyothy Labs and Varun Beverages Limited (VBL), will be least impacted by the new plastic waste management rules.
