Indore, the cleanest city in India, is taking a significant step towards sustainability with the inauguration of its new waste management initiative. On December 22, Indore Airport will officially become the country’s first zero-waste airport. This milestone is a part of the city’s broader efforts to promote eco-friendly practices and reduce environmental impact.
The airport’s innovative waste management system will handle waste generated from both the aircraft and airport premises. Wet waste will be converted into fertiliser, while dry waste will be segregated and recycled. This initiative follows the 4R concept—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Restore—to ensure minimal waste is sent to landfills. The ultimate aim is to make the airport self-sustaining in its waste management, while contributing positively to the environment.
A revolutionary approach to waste management
One of the key elements of the zero-waste project is a state-of-the-art 3,000-square-foot material recovery facility located at the airport. This facility will ensure that waste from various sources, including airlines, shops, gardens, and toilets, is properly segregated into wet and dry categories. The airport will not only recycle waste but will also generate revenue by turning wet waste into valuable fertiliser, a significant departure from its previous practice of paying the Municipal Corporation for waste disposal.
The project is set to be officially inaugurated on December 22 by Civil Aviation Minister Kinjurapuram Rammohan Naidu. This will mark a new chapter in the airport’s sustainability journey.
In addition to the zero-waste initiative, Indore Airport is also preparing to handle a rise in passenger traffic. The old terminal is set to reopen soon, allowing the airport to accommodate even more passengers. Indore Airport’s facilities have already earned national recognition, having been ranked as the fourth-best airport in India. It has surpassed major airports such as Delhi and Hyderabad in terms of passenger amenities and services.
The success of the zero-waste initiative is a result of extensive collaboration between various stakeholders. The project has received strong support from Indigo Airlines, which contributed to the construction of the material recovery plant through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund. The Airport Authority, AAS, and the Indore Municipal Corporation have also played pivotal roles in making this project a reality.
MP Shankar Lalwani expressed his appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the Safai Mitras, airport employees, and officials who have been instrumental in achieving this landmark milestone. The joint effort has transformed Indore Airport into a model for sustainable practices in the aviation sector.
Indore Airport’s transition into a zero-waste airport is an inspiring example of how airports can lead the way in environmental responsibility. With its comprehensive waste management system, the airport is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also setting a benchmark for other airports across the country to follow. As India strives towards greater sustainability, this initiative reflects the growing importance of eco-conscious practices in the aviation and transportation industries.
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