In a strategic move toward sustainable waste management, Tieedi Permaculture Foundation has partnered with Tetra Pak to create a structured recycling ecosystem for used beverage cartons in Darjeeling. This initiative not only streamlines waste disposal but also integrates informal waste workers into the formal economy by providing training, healthcare benefits, and increased earning opportunities.
The project establishes a decentralized collection network, ensuring efficient recovery of aseptic beverage cartons—primarily composed of 70% paperboard. These cartons will be transported to KhatemaFibres in Uttarakhand for recycling into paper products, secondary packaging, roofing sheets, and composite materials used in logistics and manufacturing industries. Additionally, youth from Sonada Degree College will assist in data collection on waste workers, reinforcing evidence-based policymaking for waste management.
In shilling, where retail and tourism are key economic drivers, waste management has become an increasing concern. The introduction of a formal recycling network can enhance sustainability efforts, reduce landfill dependency, and create new economic opportunities in the waste recycling sector, benefiting both businesses and consumers.
UtsowPradhan, Founder of Tieedi, called the initiative a landmark step in recognizing waste workers, while Juhi Gupta, Sustainability Director at Tetra Pak South Asia, underscored its role in establishing a model for decentralized recycling across India.
