Surat is making remarkable progress towards becoming a zero-waste city, showcasing a pioneering approach to managing construction and demolition waste. The city has achieved 100% recycling of construction waste, significantly reducing carbon emissions and setting a national benchmark for sustainability. Surat, traditionally known for its diamond and textile industries, is now gaining recognition for its environmental endeavors.
The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has prioritized green growth and circular economy practices during the state government’s Urban Development Year. A key focus has been on integrating modern infrastructure development with sustainable initiatives, aiming to recycle all construction and demolition waste generated within the city. This move is a part of the city’s commitment to environmental conservation and reducing its carbon footprint.
Central to Surat’s waste management strategy is the construction and demolition waste recycling plant at Kosad, operating under a Public-Private Partnership model. With a daily processing capacity of 300 metric tonnes, the plant currently recycles approximately 80 metric tonnes of demolition waste daily. The recycled materials, including bricks, concrete, and iron fragments, are processed scientifically to manufacture products like crushed aggregates, recycled sand, paver blocks, and concrete bricks.
Surat’s comprehensive recycling efforts have led to a substantial reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, estimated at over 500 tonnes annually. This reduction is equivalent to saving around 250,000 kilograms of coal and has also alleviated the strain on natural resources such as stone and sand. The city’s commitment to cleanliness and sustainability is evident in its top ranking in Swachh Survekshan 2024 and its consistent performance in the Super Clean League.
