Corporate Waste Management Policies in India and SDG 12 Achievement
Abstract
India faces a major challenge in balancing industrial growth with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research evaluates how corporate waste management policies in India align with SDG-12 targets. The study specifically focuses on the private sector’s role in promoting conscientious consumption and production practices across various industries.
The research uses a qualitative design. It analyses sustainability reports from the industrial, consumer goods, and technology sectors and evaluates key strategies such as the circular economy and Extended Producer Responsibility. It also reviews official data from the NITI Aayog SDG India Index Reports.
The findings show that India has significantly improved its waste treatment capabilities. Bio-medical waste treatment reached 91.52% by 2024. Hazardous waste recycling also increased to 54.99%. However, total waste generation and fossil fuel use continue to rise. Large companies use advanced tools, such as artificial intelligence, for resource recovery. But small companies struggle with high costs and technical barriers. This creates a big gap in national sustainability performance.
The originality of this paper lies in its comparison of corporate reports with official national indicators. It identifies a disconnect between policy goals and real-world outcomes.
A primary limitation of this research is its focus on large corporations. These companies have greater resources than small enterprises. Additionally, gaps in national reporting systems make it difficult to track chemical waste accurately.
The findings imply that future regulations must provide more support to smaller businesses. The policymakers should strengthen reporting systems and the administration of waste regulations. These changes are necessary to safeguard the environment and improve public health. According to the analysis, India needs to shift from managing waste to preventing it at the source to meet the SDG 2030 targets.
