What is MLP?
Multi-Layered Plastic (MLP) is a type of packaging made from several layers of plastic, often combined with materials like aluminum. It’s used in snack packets, food wrappers, and pouches because it’s strong and keeps products fresh. However, MLP is hard to recycle since its layers are difficult to separate, making it a big environmental challenge.
MLP waste often ends up in landfills or pollutes rivers and oceans, where it can take hundreds of years to break down. As it degrades, it releases harmful chemicals into the soil and water, harming nature, wildlife, and public health. This adds to India’s growing plastic pollution crisis, affecting ecosystems and communities across the country.
Why is MLP a Concern?
Tough to Recycle
MLP’s fused plastic, aluminum, and paper layers are nearly impossible to separate, making most of it non-recyclable and piling up in landfills.
Fuels Plastic Pollution
Over 100 million tons of MLP produced yearly, often for single-use items, clogs oceans and harms wildlife due to low recycling rates.
Weak Recycling Systems
Most recycling facilities can’t process MLP, and advanced solutions aren’t widely available, leaving waste management systems overwhelmed.
Long-Lasting Harm
MLP persists in landfills for centuries or releases toxins when burned, polluting soil, water, and air with microplastics and greenhouse gases.
How MLP is Managed?
- Specialized Collection – We work with businesses and communities to collect MLP waste separately, ensuring it doesn’t mix with other recyclables.
- Innovative Processing – We use advanced methods to break down MLP into usable materials, such as converting it into fuel or other products.
- The MLP Recycling Process – Here’s how we recycle MLP:
a. Sorting and Cleaning – MLP waste is collected and sorted to remove any non-MLP items. It’s then cleaned to remove food residue or contaminants.
b. Shredding – The MLP is shredded into smaller pieces to make it easier to handle.
c. Separation – Using specialized technology, we separate the plastic layers from other materials like aluminum, often through processes like delamination.
d. Conversion – The separated materials are processed further—plastics are turned into granules for reuse in manufacturing, or converted into alternative fuels, while other materials are sent for appropriate recycling.
Government of India Norms for MLP Processing
The Government of India has set clear guidelines to manage MLP waste through the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and its amendments. These rules hold producers, importers, and brand owners accountable for collecting and managing MLP waste under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. They are required to set up systems for collecting MLP waste, like sachets and pouches, and ensure it’s processed responsibly. The rules also called for phasing out non-recyclable MLP within two years, though challenges in enforcement remain. Additionally, the 2022 EPR guidelines for plastic packaging set specific recycling targets and encourage the use of recycled plastic content in new products. For more details on these regulations, visit the Government of India’s Plastic Waste Management portal to learn how these norms are shaping a sustainable future.