KERALAM: BASF India launch polyurethane recycling to manage footwear waste

BASF India, in collaboration with Green Worms (Serve Rural) and Indian Polyurethane Association (IPUA), inaugurated a CSR funded polyurethane (PU) waste recycling facility in Manjeri, Malappuram district, Keralam, marking a significant milestone in advancing circular economy practices for polyurethane waste in India.

The CSR initiative, led by BASF India, implemented by Green Worms, and supported by IPUA, aims to establish a structured ecosystem for the collection, segregation, recycling, and repurposing of post-industrial polyurethane waste from the footwear industry, addressing a waste stream that has traditionally been challenging to manage.

The project will establish a responsible collection and mechanical recycling network for post-industrial polyurethane waste from the footwear industry, diverting it from landfills and transforming it into useful products such as indoor floor mats for rural schools in Keralam.

In its first phase alone, the initiative is expected to benefit around 4,000 school children from underprivileged background while creating livelihood opportunities for waste collectors and recycling workers.

Speaking on the inauguration ceremony, Alexander Gerding, Head, BASF Group companies, said, “Through our collaboration with Green Worms and the Indian Polyurethane Association, waste that would otherwise end up in landfills is transformed into valuable products that support community development.”

Jabir Karat, CEO, Green Worms, stated, “We hope this initiative will serve as a model for expanding polyurethane recycling in India and strengthening the country’s transition towards a more resource-efficient and circular economy.”

Harneet Kochar, Chairman, IPUA, said, “By bringing together stakeholders across the value chain, we can contribute to more sustainable manufacturing practices while advancing circular economy principles within the footwear industry. This will serve as an inspiration and encourage stakeholders from many other applications across the polyurethane industry to engage and innovate. My best wishes and support for the success of this initiative.”

Polyurethane Waste Conundrum

Polyurethane is a versatile material widely used across industries including furniture, bedding, automotive, footwear, appliances, construction, and packaging. As polyurethane consumption grows, effective end-of-life waste management solutions become increasingly important.

The facility inaugurated today is expected to strengthen local waste management systems and demonstrate how collaboration across stakeholders can create scalable solutions for complex waste streams. The project will also promote responsible disposal practices while delivering long-term environmental and community benefits.