Integration of the Informal Sector in Plastic Waste Management through Catalytic Pyrolysis for a Circular Economy in India

There is growing pressure on India’s plastic waste system because the amount of unclean and low-value plastic waste is increasing, and most of it is not picked up by municipal workers. Even though the informal sector plays a big role in collecting valuable plastics, that are still excluded from the most important environmental policies. At present, recycling technology has failed to work well with mixed polymer waste, leading to more problems concerning the environment and human lives. This study looks at connecting informal plastic collection methods with decentralised catalytic pyrolysis units to practice circular economy solutions. The use of information from CPCB reports, case studies in municipalities, existing research, and laboratory pyrolysis experiments proves that catalytic pyrolysis can turn multi layered, soiled, and unsorted plastic wastes into liquid fuels, gases, and char. Testing revealed that ZSM-5 gave the best oil production, and amongst the other catalysts, CaO and MgO had advantages when it comes to costs and stability. The framework supports informal cooperatives in feeding pyrolysis plants, given that there is institutional backing, incentives, and attention from lawmakers. The model deals with the problem of breathable plastic and provides a way for everyone to participate in recycling. But the effectiveness of this approach depends on changing the EPR credit system, ensuring high quality of made pyrolytic products, and offering formal status to people working informally in the plastic value chain. Catalytic pyrolysis, if used within an inclusive governance environment, has the potential to make both environmental and industry growth happen in the plastic waste sector of India.