New Delhi, January 23, 2025: The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) organized the 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Circularity (ICSC) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, during the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The conference, themed "Nature Positive Recycling – Systemic Transformation to Automotive Circular Economy in India," focused on regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and stakeholder collaboration for a circular economy in the automotive sector.
Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, launched SIAM’s strategy paper, "Towards Circular Future in the Indian Automobile Industry: Integrating EPR Regime in Waste Stream Regulations." Addressing the gathering, he said, “As the automotive industry observes a notable growth, it is imperative to reflect on our environmental obligations. Nature, with its innate capacity for regeneration, serves as an exemplar for our operational strategies. Our focus extends beyond mere waste management to stimulating economic development, diminishing emissions, and cultivating societal advancements through the promotion of green jobs.”
The conference included panel discussions on topics such as ELV (End-of-Life Vehicle) recycling, EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility), regulatory challenges, and technological solutions. Policymakers, industry representatives, and experts participated to explore advancements in recycling and sustainable practices.
A handbook titled "Automotive Circularity in India: Unlocking a Sustainable Future," co-created by SIAM and Recykal, was released during the event. The document offers insights into reimagining the automotive value chain, addressing material procurement and end-of-life vehicle management, and outlines a strategic roadmap for transitioning to circular economic models.
The event featured participation from senior representatives of the automotive and recycling sectors, government officials, and experts, including Rajendra M Petkar (Tata Motors Ltd), Sosho Kitajima (Japan Automobile Recycling Alliance), and Mahmood Ahmed (Ministry of Road Transport & Highways), among others. Discussions addressed key challenges and opportunities in adopting circular economy practices.