Nextek has set up a subsidiary in the manufacturing hub of Pune, India, to work with local organisations to boost the rate of waste plastics recycling.
The London-based recycling consultancy has established Nextek Consultants to work with firms following the growing number of plastic bans in Indian states.
These bans have focused on lightweight bags and single use packaging including cups and cutlery. Nextek this week has held seminars in Mumbai and Pune in conjunction with the All India Plastics Manufacturers Association and the Indian Plastics Institute.
“I was impressed by the rapid acceptance of the concept of the circular economy and the concern of local companies to counterbalance the bans by extolling the benefits of plastics and seeking new innovations in plastics recycling,” said Nextek managing director Edward Kosior.
“Both of the packed seminars created many enquiries on two key topics; the recycling of complex films and surprisingly automatic sorting of packaging as the local companies seek to extend their capabilities beyond current basic technologies.
“We have met resin companies, manufacturers and recyclers that are looking for new markets with increased margins and are prepared to invest to improve productivity and profits.”