Vellore Set to Enhance Plastic Waste Management with Resource Recovery Centres
Vellore, a bustling city in Tamil Nadu, is taking proactive steps to revolutionize its plastic waste management system. The city plans to establish 14 Resource Recovery Centres (RRCs) strategically placed throughout the area. These RRCs will revolutionize waste management by allowing the processing of plastic waste collected from local wards directly on-site.
Eliminating Transportation Hassles with On-Site Processing
Dr. S R Ganesh, Vellore’s city health officer, emphasized the significance of these RRCs. He noted that once operational, the RRCs would eradicate the need to transport plastic waste to a remote facility located in Viruthampattu. This elimination of transportation hurdles is expected to accelerate the baling process, reducing plastic waste accumulation at micro-composting centres.
Encouraging Residents to Join the Movement
To sustain this effective waste management system, Vellore’s residents will be actively encouraged to hand over their plastic waste to sanitary workers on designated days – Wednesdays or Thursdays. This unified effort aims to ensure convenient and regular disposal of plastic waste.
Discovering Unorthodox Uses for Plastic Waste: An Alternative Fuel Source
To demonstrate the resourcefulness of Vellore’s waste management strategy, Dr. Ganesh highlighted the collaboration with local cement factories. The plastic waste, after being baled, will be repurposed as an alternative fuel source in these factories. This initiative not only reduces the environmental impact of plastic waste but also paves the way for exploring innovative solutions to sustainable energy production.
Streamlining Transportation with Efficient Logistics
In striving for efficiency, Vellore’s waste management corporation has transitioned from relying on contracted lorry services to using its own vehicles for transporting plastic waste. This change has significantly minimized delays in the transportation process, facilitating the swift delivery of waste to its destination for recycling.
Promoting Responsible E-Waste Management
Recognizing the urgent need to address the growing issue of electronic waste (e-waste), Vellore’s civic body has taken up discussions with a reputed private vendor. Approved by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), this vendor is frontrunning the establishment of an e-waste recycling program. The goal of this partnership is to create a harmonious relationship promoting safe handling and management of e-waste in the city.
Implementing a Holistic Approach to Waste Management
While focusing on plastic and e-waste, Vellore has not overlooked the importance of proper bio-degradable waste management. Fifty micro-composting centres are actively transforming this type of waste into precious organic manure. The city distributed this nutrient-rich manure free of charge to benefit local farmers, proudly executing a circular economy concept where waste becomes a valuable resource.
With its dedicated effort towards a cleaner and more sustainable environment, Vellore serves as an inspiring example for other cities striving to enhance their waste management systems. By implementing progressive measures such as the establishment of Resource Recovery Centres, efficient transportation logistics, and responsible e-waste management, Vellore is setting a benchmark for others to follow. It is anticipated that these initiatives will forge a path to a cleaner and greener future, cradling the city’s ecological endeavors.
