Central Government has launched a dedicated Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Portal and Stakeholders’ Platform to develop a structured, transparent, and sustainable recycling ecosystem in India. This initiative aligns with the government’s focus on promoting a circular economy and supports data-driven policymaking in the recycling sector.
Key Features of Portal
National Registry:
- For dismantlers, recyclers, traders, and collection centres.
Tracking Tools:
- To monitor raw material flow, product categories, technology usage, and workforce data
Performance Benchmarking:
- Industry participants can assess and compare their performance across parameters.
Infrastructure & Skill Gap Identification:
- Highlights regional and sectoral deficiencies in infrastructure and skilled manpower.
Standards and Certification Development:
- Supports formulation of standards, certification mechanisms, and awareness campaigns.
Data-Driven Policy Support:
- Facilitates evidence-based decisions by collecting real-time recycling data.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Connects recyclers, dismantlers, aggregators, industry associations, and research institutions for collaborative development.
Portal Developed Under:
- National Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap Recycling Framework Guidelines
- Focuses on key metals: Aluminium, Copper, Lead, Zinc, and Critical Elements
Objective and Significance
| Aspect | Details |
| Circular Economy Push | Supports resource efficiency and emission reduction via recycling |
| Energy Efficiency | Recycled aluminium consumes up to 95% less energy than primary production |
| Policy Guidance Tool | Portal will guide future regulatory decisions using verified industry data |
| Enhancing Participation | Enables wider industry involvement and transparency across the value chain |
| Skill & Infrastructure | Supports R&D, training, and infrastructure development through data insights |
Current Challenges in Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling in India
| Issue | Details |
| Low Recycling Rate | India’s aluminium recycling rate is 35%, compared to the global average of 65–75% |
| Import Duty Disparity | Low import duty (2.5%) on aluminium scrap helps recyclers, but risks flooding market with finished imports |
| Global Competition | Malaysia and Thailand offer zero-duty environments, attracting recycling businesses |
Expected Benefits
- Strengthens the national recycling value chain
- Promotes domestic recycling industry
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Empowers evidence-based policymaking
- Helps monitor recycling capacity and infrastructure needs
- Aligns with India’s goals for a circular economy and resource security