BSWML Sends Low Value Plastic Waste to Cement Factories to Ease Landfill Pressure

Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) has taken a significant step towards sustainable waste management by transporting low value plastic waste to cement factories across Karnataka. The initiative is aimed at reducing the growing burden on landfills while ensuring that plastic waste is put to productive industrial use instead of remaining an environmental hazard.

Under this programme, plastic waste that cannot be economically recycled is segregated and sent to cement manufacturing units, where it is used as an alternative fuel and raw material. This process, known as co processing, allows cement kilns to safely dispose of plastic waste at high temperatures, eliminating harmful emissions and reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels.

On Monday, consignments of low value plastic waste were loaded for transport to a cement factory in Kadapa, marking another milestone in BSWML’s efforts to streamline Bengaluru’s waste management ecosystem. Officials said the initiative aligns with national guidelines on plastic waste management and supports circular economy principles by ensuring waste is reused rather than dumped.

Bengaluru generates thousands of tonnes of plastic waste every month, a large portion of which has limited recycling value. Traditionally, such waste ends up in landfills, contributing to soil and groundwater pollution while occupying valuable land. By diverting this waste to cement plants, BSWML aims to significantly extend landfill life and reduce long term environmental risks.

Cement manufacturers have welcomed the move, noting that co processing not only helps manage plastic waste responsibly but also lowers energy costs and carbon emissions. Industry experts point out that using plastic waste as fuel can partially replace coal, leading to measurable reductions in greenhouse gas output.

Environmentalists have also acknowledged the benefits of the initiative, while stressing the need for continued focus on waste segregation at source. Proper segregation ensures that recyclable plastics are recovered efficiently and only non recyclable material is sent for co processing.

BSWML officials said the programme will be expanded further, with more cement factories across the state expected to participate. The agency also plans to strengthen collection and segregation systems to maximise the volume of waste diverted from landfills.

As Bengaluru continues to grapple with mounting waste challenges, initiatives like this highlight how collaboration between urban bodies and industry can deliver practical, scalable solutions for cleaner and more sustainable cities.