The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) launched a national mission for sustainable packaging solutions on 27th July 2024.
The CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) in Thiruvananthapuram is responsible for coordinating the project, which involves a consortium of eight CSIR laboratories and industrial partners.
N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and Director General, CSIR, introduced the programme here at NIIST on 27th July 2024.
Packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring integrity and safety during handling, transportation or storage of products. The mission, funded by CSIR, aims to develop solutions to sustainable packaging requirements, including development of packaging materials and smart recycling and reuse methods to make the packaging industry smart, affordable and reliable with advanced testing and monitoring facilities, a statement said.
Dr. Kalaiselvi said CSIR decided to take this initiative as packaging has been largely neglected in terms of concerted R&D efforts to channel scientific advances towards sustainable and comprehensive solutions.
NIIST Director C. Anandharamakrishnan is the coordinator of the National Mission for Sustainable Packaging. He said that a large team of researchers and industry will drive the project. The project will also set up the country’s pioneering Biodegradability Testing and Monitoring Centre.
27th July 2024 event coincided with the launch of NIIST’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Dr. Kalaiselvi unveiled the logo for the celebrations.
