Mapusa has taken another significant step towards sustainable waste management with the inauguration of its second Dry Waste Collection Centre (DWCC), reinforcing the townโs ambition to become a net-zero plastic hub. The initiative, launched under the Plastics Lighthouse Project by Mondelez India Foods Pvt. Ltd. in partnership with Anubhuti Welfare Foundation, was unveiled on the occasion of Global Recycling Day.
The newly established DWCC is expected to strengthen the townโs waste management infrastructure by improving the collection, sorting, and recycling of dry waste. It aims to channel recyclable materials into formal recycling streams, thereby reducing the burden on landfills and promoting circular economy practices.
Speaking at the event, Joshua De Souza, MLA of Mapusa Constituency and Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, highlighted the importance of citizen participation. He encouraged residents to utilise the facility for proper disposal of household dry waste instead of discarding it irresponsibly, noting that such initiatives play a crucial role in maintaining a clean and green Mapusa.
Ophira Bhatia of Mondelฤz International emphasised that the project has already made measurable progress. Over the past two years, more than 4,000 metric tonnes of waste, including over 350 metric tonnes of plastic, have been diverted from landfills. The Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at Cunchelim currently processes between 5 to 8 tonnes of dry waste daily, ensuring that recyclable materials are effectively recovered.
The initiative also focuses on behavioural change, promoting segregation of waste at the source. Systems for 4-way and 8-way segregation have been introduced across residential areas, institutions, and commercial establishments. Eight Resident Welfare Associations have already achieved 100% source segregation, with more than 90% of their waste being recyclable.
Awareness campaigns conducted under the project have reached over 42,000 residents, covering nearly 75% of Mapusaโs population. These efforts aim to instil responsible waste management practices and encourage long-term community participation.
Overall, the Plastics Lighthouse Project has successfully diverted over 4,100 metric tonnes of waste from landfills and recycled more than 365 metric tonnes of plastic. With the addition of the second DWCC, Mapusa continues to strengthen its position as a model town for sustainable waste management and circular economy practices in India.
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