IndiGoReach, the CSR initiative of IndiGo, has teamed up with the Airports Authority of India and the AAS Foundation, Indore, to launch the Zero Waste Airport Project. The project, utilizing the 4R strategy (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover), aims to minimize the environmental impact of airport operations and set a new standard for sustainable waste management in the aviation industry. It focuses on behavioral change, training, and stakeholder engagement to promote sustainable waste practices.

The Material Recovery Facility (MRF) that is part of the project was inaugurated by Rammohan Naidu, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India; Shankar Lalwani, MP Indore and Chairman of Indore Airport; Kailash Vijayvargiya, Minister for MP Urban Development; Pushyamitra Bhargav, Mayor of IMC Indore; Vipin Kumar, Chairman of India Airport Authority; along with other senior officials and political leaders.

During the event, a guided tour of the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) was provided. Attendees observed the innovative waste segregation and recycling processes being implemented at the airport.

Previously, Indore Airport had relied on traditional waste disposal methods. However, with the introduction of the 4R approach, it is now set to adopt 'Zero Waste' practices. The newly established waste processing plant will handle 750 kgs of waste daily on-site, significantly reducing the airport's dependency on landfills.

The Zero Waste Project also includes a state-of-the-art Wet Waste Processing Unit, which transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. This compost will be used to improve the airport’s landscaping. Furthermore, the MRF will sort dry waste into 10 distinct categories for recycling. To promote sustainability, the project incorporates comprehensive waste segregation practices and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste disposal among both passengers and staff. The project is designed as a self-sustaining model, with income generated from compost and recycled materials funding the salaries of dedicated green workers starting from the third year, ensuring its long-term viability.

Through this collaboration, InterGlobe Aviation Ltd. (IndiGo) and the Airports Authority of India have established a public-private partnership that delivers a tangible, sustainable benefit to the community.