C.D. - Forum for Sustainable Development Events

Students (8) of the Sustainable Development Forum along with the faculty coordinator Anuradha Shetty, Asst Professor, PG Department of Social Work, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, embarked on an educational exposure visit on November 10, 2023 to the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Nitte, a pioneering initiative in India. Facilitated by Mr. M.S. Dhanush, the Manager of MRF, the visit provided a comprehensive understanding of the facility's operations.

Material Recovery Facility (MRF) handling dry waste at Nitte in Karkala taluk is a start-up by M/s Mangala Resource Management Pvt. Ltd. Since its operations from August 2021, Nitte has been instrumental in delivering efficient waste management services to 46 Gram Panchayats (GPs) within the Udupi District. During discussions with Mr. Dhanush, several key aspects of the facility came to light:

Waste Management: MRF boasts a daily capacity to segregate 10 tonnes of dry waste. Emphasizing a commitment to scientific waste management, the facility efficiently channels reusable materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and glass to recycling units. Non-recyclable waste undergoes responsible disposal at a cement factory in Belgaum, Karnataka, albeit incurring a transport cost of approximately INR 50,000.

Human Resource & Work: Employing a workforce of 36 individuals, MRF extends employment opportunities, particularly to women within the local community. Operations run six days a week, with Tuesdays designated as a day off due to power supply constraints.

Impact: The operations of MRF revealed significant positive impacts, including a substantial reduction in waste dumping and public littering. Segregation at the source has been enhanced through the active involvement of Gram Panchayats, leading to heightened awareness of scientific waste handling. The employment opportunities generated have positively influenced the local community.

Challenges: However, MRF faces challenges, such as insufficient financial support from Gram Panchayats for waste transport, management of non-recyclable waste, market price fluctuations, and the necessity to cover transport costs for non-recyclable waste.

Outcomes of the Exposure: The exposure provided students with valuable insights into solid waste management processes, challenges faced by MRF, and the potential to advocate for waste utilization as a resource. The visit contributed to a deeper understanding of sustainable practices and the importance of community involvement.

In closing, Libin Jose expressed gratitude to Mr. M.S. Dhanush for generously sharing information about MRF – Nitte. As a token of appreciation, Assistant Professor Anuradha Shetty presented a memento on behalf of the Sustainable Development Forum, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, followed by a photo session to commemorate the insightful visit.