The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) GreenCo Council has launched the CII GreenCo Circularity Guidelines – Pilot Version at the 17th CII GreenCo Waste & Resource Management Summit 2026 in Chennai. The initiative aims to strengthen resource efficiency, waste reduction and circular economy practices across Indian manufacturing and process industries.

The guidelines introduce a structured framework with circularity indices covering raw materials, consumables, packaging and other resource inputs. These indicators will help industries assess existing practices, identify opportunities to improve resource productivity and measure progress towards sustainable material utilisation.

Dr Sharad P. Kale, Special Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Goa, emphasised the importance of responsible consumption, resource conservation and reducing waste at source to advance circularity.

George Menezes, Adviser – Sustainability, Godrej Enterprises Group, highlighted the need for a common framework and certification mechanism to improve accountability and encourage continuous improvement across industries.

K. S. Venkatagiri, Executive Director, CII Green Business Centre, said the guidelines build on existing initiatives, including the GreenCo Rating System, Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge certifications.

The summit also explored waste-to-wealth opportunities, advanced recycling technologies, biogas, Bio-CNG, waste-to-energy solutions and battery recycling. Discussions highlighted the role of artificial intelligence, automation, smart sensors and digital traceability in improving waste management and resource recovery.

CII GreenCo has invited manufacturing and process industries to participate in the pilot programme, implement the framework and provide feedback to refine the guidelines for wider industry adoption.