IndiGoReach, IndiGo’s CSR initiative has launched the Zero Waste Airport Project in collaboration with Airports Authority of India and AAS Foundation, Indore. Using the 4R strategy (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover), the project aims to minimize the environmental impact of airport operations and set new standards for sustainable waste management in aviation. Focused on behavior change, training and stakeholder engagement, the initiative seeks to set a new standard for sustainable waste management in the aviation industry.
The Material Recovery Facility (MRF) which is a part of the project was inaugurated by Shri Rammohan Naidu, Hon’ble Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Govt. of India, Shri Shankar Lalwani, MP Indore and Chairman Indore Airport, Shri Kailash Vijayvargiya – Minister MP Urban Development, Shri Pushyamitra Bhargava, Mayor IMC Indore, Vipin Kumar, Chairman – Airports Authority of India and other senior officials and political leaders.
The program included a guided tour of the Material Recovery Facility (MRF). Participants also saw first-hand the waste separation and recycling procedures implemented at the airport.
Earlier relying on traditional waste disposal methods, Indore Airport is now all set to embrace ‘Zero Waste’ practices through the 4R approach – reduce, reuse, recycle, recover. The new waste treatment plant will treat the airport’s 750 kg of waste per day on-site, significantly reducing landfill dependency.
The zero waste project includes a state-of-the-art wet waste treatment unit that converts organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. This compost will be used to expand the landscaping of the compost airport. Additionally, a state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility (MRF) will carefully sort dry waste into 10 different categories for recycling. To promote a culture of sustainability, the project includes extensive waste segregation practices and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste management among passengers and staff. Notably, the project is designed as a self-sustaining model. Income generated from compost and recycled materials will be used to cover the salaries of dedicated green workers from the third year onwards, ensuring the long-term viability of the project.
InterGlobe Aviation Limited (INDIGO) and the Airports Authority of India have pioneered a public-private partnership that delivers tangible and sustainable benefits to the community.