UTECH India and Plastics Recycling Show Highlight Innovation and Collaboration in Advancing Circular Economy Practices
The TECH India Sustainable Polyurethane & Foam Expo (TECH ISPF) and the Plastics Recycling Show India (PSI) launched at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. Organized by Media Fusion and Crain Communications, these colocated events are focused on promoting sustainability within the polyurethane, foam, and plastics recycling sectors. With India’s plastics recycling market projected to grow from 9.9 million tons in 2023 to 23.7 million tons by 2032, at a CG of 9.86%, and the polyurethane foam market expected to reach SD 6.76 billion by 2032, the events underscore the industry’s vital role in the country’s sustainable growth.
Country’s sustainable growth. The events were inaugurated by prominent dignitaries from various sectors. t TECH ISPF, notable attendees included Mr. Jaiprakash Bhatia, Chairman of the Builder’s Association of India; Mr. Sanjay Gupta, President of the Indian Footwear Components Manufacturers Association; Mr. Mahesh Bangad, Chairman of the Architects, Engineers & Surveyors Association; and others committed to the industry’s growth. The Plastics Recycling Show India also saw the presence of key leaders like Mr. Ton Emans, President of Plastic Recyclers Europe; Ms. Garima Mishra, Chief Advisor – South East Asia, Alliance to End Plastic Waste; and Mr. Shailendra Singh, Director General of the association of PET recyclers – Bharat.
Focus on Circular Economy and Sustainability
UTECH India and PSI served as important platforms for showcasing innovations in polyurethane, foam, and plastics recycling, with a special focus on India’s growing role in the global circular economy. One of the highlights was the Sleep Expo India Pavilion, showcasing technologies related to mattress recycling, including machinery, textiles, and yarn. Sponsored by Duroflex Pvt. Ltd., the pavilion provided valuable insights into circular economy practices and sustainable solutions in the mattress manufacturing sector.
Polyurethane Industry Growth and Innovation Keynote Remarks on Polyurethane’s Untapped Potential
Mr. Mahesh Bangad, Chairman, Architects, Engineers & Surveyors Association, said “Polyurethane (P) stands as a versatile yet underutilized material in India’s construction and design industries. Currently, only 5-7% of the population is aware of its applications, leaving a staggering 93% growth potential untapped. Globally, P has revolutionized industries with its resilience, thermal insulation properties, and adaptability in products ranging from rigid construction materials to flexible furniture solutions. However, challenges like flammability, application costs, and limited innovation have hindered its widespread adoption in India. With greater emphasis on experimentation, recyclability, and integration into sustainable practices, P can become a key contributor to achieving net-zero goals and transforming sectors like interior design, construction, and packaging.”
Mr. Hufeza Samplewala, President, Association of Furniture Manufacturers and Traders, said “The furniture industry in India, valued at $25-26 billion, is witnessing remarkable growth, with projections indicating it will nearly double to over $50 billion by 2030, driven by a consistent CG of 6-6.5%. This sector is experiencing significant momentum, bolstered by government initiatives such as the development of furniture hubs under the Make in India campaign. These hubs aim to reduce dependency on imports, particularly from countries like China, and promote domestic manufacturing. notable shift includes Indian manufacturers expanding their footprint in export markets, including the US. and Africa. The exhibition highlights P foam, a critical raw material for seating systems, which is now increasingly produced locally, reducing reliance on imports. Furthermore, sustainable practices are gaining traction, with innovations in engineered and WPC boards—recycled, eco-friendly alternatives— becoming key components in furniture production. Efforts to standardize the industry are also underway, with the Bureau of Indian Standards introducing comprehensive furniture standards across categories, aiming to elevate quality benchmarks and reduce imports. Addressing challenges such as the high GST rate of 18% and further boosting MSME contributions are critical steps for unlocking the sector’s potential.”
The event attracted several leading brands, including Chemie Products, Duroflex Pvt. Ltd., Meenakshi Polymers Pvt. Ltd., Starlinger & Co GmbH, and others, who showcased their latest sustainable solutions. These exhibitors are driving the industry towards innovation, emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendly practices crucial for the future of the polyurethane and plastics recycling sectors.