The entire plastics recycling and PU and foam fraternity explored sustainable innovations in PU foam and plastics recycling at the event.
PRS India & UTECH ISPUF EXPO 2024
MUMBAI, 4th DECEMBER, 2024 (GPN): UTECH India Sustainable Polyurethane & Foam Expo (UTECH ISPUF) and the Plastics Recycling Show India (PRSI), kicked off at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Organized by international trade-show organisers, Media Fusion and Crain Communications, these co-located events focus on advancing sustainability in polyurethane, foam, and plastics recycling. 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 CAGR of 9.86%, the events aim to drive innovation and establish new benchmarks for eco-friendly practices in these industries. Additionally, India polyurethane foam market size valued at USD 3.74 billion in 2023, is projected to reach at USD 6.76 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.30% during 2024-2032.
The inauguration of the event was a grand affair with distinguished dignitaries gracing the occasion. Esteemed dignitaries for UTECH ISPUF included Mr. Jaiprakash Bhatia, Chairman, Builder’s Association of India; Mr. Sanjay Gupta, President, Indian Footwear Components Manufacturers Association; Mr. Mahesh Bangad, Chairman, Architects, Engineers & Surveyors Association; Mr. Gaurav Sachdeva, Director, Chemie Products; Mr. Anuraag Purie, Owner, AS Enterprises; Mr. Jinen Jain, Managing Director, Prakash Textiles Mills; Mr. Prashant Jain, Director – Marketing, Libra Mattress, and Mr. Hufeza Samplewala, President, Association of Furniture Manufacturers and Traders.
For the plastics recycling show, notable dignitaries included Mr. Ton Emans, President, Plastic Recyclers Europe; Mr. Shailendra Singh, Director General, Association of PET Recyclers – Bharat; Ms. Garima Mishra, Chief Advisor – South East Asia, Alliance to End Plastic Waste; Mr. Prabhakar Milavarapu, CMO, Sri Chakra; Mr. Ankit Jain, Director, Ribotl; Mr. Suresh Varadarajan, Managing Director, SI Group India Pvt Ltd. along with other prominent figures committed to sustainability and innovation in recycling and packaging.
The event also features a pavilion showcasing the Middle East’s leading trade show on mattress manufacturing – Sleep Expo India Pavilion, focused on mattress recycling technologies such as machinery, textiles, and yarn. Sponsored by Duroflex Pvt. Ltd. as the Mattress & Cushioning Partner, the pavilion offers valuable insights into circular economy practices, waste management innovations, and sustainable solutions vital for the industry’s future.
Mr. Bhadresh Dodhia, Director, Association of PET Recyclers (BHARAT), said “India’s PET recycling industry, represented by the All India Plastic Recycling Association (APR), stands as the world’s largest capacity recycler, with an impressive annual recycling capability of 5 lakh tonnes. Over the last three years, the sector has attracted ₹10,000 crores in investments, spurred by progressive government policies such as mandating 30% recycled content in plastic packaging by 2025 under the Plastic Waste Management Rules.
India, recognized globally for its recycling efficiency, currently recycles 95% of its PET bottle waste, a feat achieved over the last decade. However, the industry is evolving from downcycling into a circular economy model, with food-grade approved ARPET granules now being used to manufacture 100% recycled bottles. With support from 50 lakh rag pickers—the backbone of the industry—and cutting-edge technology, India is set to lead the global recycling market, contributing significantly to a sustainable future.”
Mohammad Z Altaf, Country Head, Recaz Chemicals said, “At Recaz Chemicals, we’re committed to driving innovation in the polyurethane industry. With over 30 years of expertise, we’re proud to have established a strong presence in India, holding a 40% market share. Our R&D center in Hyderabad is dedicated to developing cutting-edge solutions, including sustainable and eco-friendly products. As we continue to expand our operations, our goal is to make our products ‘Made in India’, aligning with the country’s vision of self-reliance. We’re excited about the future and look forward to contributing to the growth of the Indian polyurethane industry.”
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 CAGR 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.”
Mr. Mahesh Bangad, Chairman, Architects, Engineers & Surveyors Association, said “Polyurethane (PU) 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, PU 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, PU can become a key contributor to achieving net-zero goals and transforming sectors like interior design, construction, and packaging.”
Mr. Taher Patrawala, Managing Director, Media Fusion, said ‘The private sector and startups are driving innovation in sustainability, adopting circular economy models that minimize waste and reduce reliance on virgin materials. Sustainability remains at the forefront, with a growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Along with government supportive policies, these efforts are transforming the industry. The combined platforms of UTECH and PRS, highlight the immense potential of recycling in India. As innovation and collaboration accelerate, the future of recycling promises exponential growth, driving sustainable practices and creating new opportunities across the industry.”
Mr. Matthew Barber, Global Events Director, Crain Communications said, “Recycling has become a global focal point for sustainable development, with India positioned uniquely due to its strong commitment to advancing circular economy practices. Reports suggest that India’s current plastic recycling rate stands at approximately 60%, significantly higher than the global average of 9%, and even surpassing several developed nations. Co-located events like UTECH and PRS underline India’s growing influence in driving global innovation. These events offer a vital platform for fostering partnerships, bridging local initiatives with international expertise, and paving the way for transformative advancements in recycling, material science, and eco-conscious manufacturing.”
Mr. Mahesh Bangad, Chairman, Architects, Engineers & Surveyors Association, said “Polyurethane (PU) 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, PU 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, PU can become a key contributor to achieving net-zero goals and transforming sectors like interior design, construction, and packaging.”
Mr. Taher Patrawala, Managing Director, Media Fusion, said ‘The private sector and startups are driving innovation in sustainability, adopting circular economy models that minimize waste and reduce reliance on virgin materials. Sustainability remains at the forefront, with a growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Along with government supportive policies, these efforts are transforming the industry. The combined platforms of UTECH and PRS, highlight the immense potential of recycling in India. As innovation and collaboration accelerate, the future of recycling promises exponential growth, driving sustainable practices and creating new opportunities across the industry.”
Mr. Matthew Barber, Global Events Director, Crain Communications said, “Recycling has become a global focal point for sustainable development, with India positioned uniquely due to its strong commitment to advancing circular economy practices. Reports suggest that India’s current plastic recycling rate stands at approximately 60%, significantly higher than the global average of 9%, and even surpassing several developed nations. Co-located events like UTECH and PRS underline India’s growing influence in driving global innovation. These events offer a vital platform for fostering partnerships, bridging local initiatives with international expertise, and paving the way for transformative advancements in recycling, material science, and eco-conscious manufacturing.”
The events hosted prominent brands such as Chemie Products Private Limited, AS Enterprises, Duroflex Pvt. Ltd, Speb Adhesives, Jay Elastomers Pvt. Ltd., Meenakshi Polymers Pvt. Ltd., Dalmia Polypro, Dodhia Plastics, Plastics for Change, Leevams Inc., Starlinger & Co GmbH, NEPRA Resource Management, Srichakra Polyplast, Ribotl all showcasing their latest sustainable solutions.
The events have received significant support from industry associations such as the Association of PET Recyclers Bharat, Packaging Industry Association of India, Indian Plastics Institute, Builder’s Association of India and the Architects, Engineers, and Surveyors Association.
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