Industrial Visit Report: Class X Visit to “Plastic for Change” Recycling Industry

On 01/10/2024, 40 students from Class X, accompanied by the school administrator and Class X teachers, embarked on an industrial visit to "Plastic for Change," a plastic PET bottle recycling industry located at Baikampady Industrial Estate, Mangalore. This visit was ‘study outing’ or excursion, aimed at providing students with real-world exposure to industries that emphasize environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the key members of the organization: Ms. Jayanthi, the Senior Program Coordinator; Mr. Ranjith, the Operations Manager; and Mr. Nithin, the Operations Leader. They provided insightful information on the industry’s operations and safety protocols, educating us about their mission and the significance of recycling of plastics in today’s world.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

1. Safety Measures:

The visit began with a thorough explanation of the safety measures implemented within the factory. This included the use of protective gear by workers, safety protocols followed during segregation and crushing, and ensuring a safe working environment for all employees, especially those handling machinery.

2. Types of Segregation:

The team, at Plastic for Change demonstrated how plastic bottles are segregated into different categories based on their material, quality, and potential for recycling. Students learned about the importance of proper waste segregation to improve recycling efficiency and reduce contamination in the recycling process.

3. Types of Stakeholders:

The recycling process involves various stakeholders, from lower-level scrap collectors to scrap-shop owners and scrap workers. We were informed about the integral roles each group plays in the recycling chain. Notably, ‘Plastic for Change’ ensures that fair wages are paid to lower scrap collectors, contributing to social equity in the waste management sector.

4. No Child Labour:

One of the ethical principles upheld by Plastic for Change is the strict avoidance of child labor. This was emphasized during the visit, reflecting the company’s commitment to social justice alongside environmental sustainability.

5. Methods of Segregation and Processing:

The students were able to witness the entire process of how PET bottles are segregated, cleaned, and crushed into smaller particles. These particles are then processed into plastic flakes and granules, ready for export to manufacturers for further use. This hands-on experience allowed students to understand the critical stages of recycling, from waste collection, segregation to reprocessing. Formation of bales for export for manufacturing into new plastic bottles by ‘Garnier ‘ Company of cosmetics at Netherlands, Europe.

6. Social and Environmental Concerns:

Plastic for Change prioritizes social and environmental well-being over profit. The industry aims to reduce plastic waste in the environment and promote a cleaner, more sustainable world. The organization also empowers marginalized communities by providing employment opportunities and ensuring fair wages for workers in the recycling chain.

7. Data Collection and Reporting:

Students were introduced to the process of data collection after scrap is deposited, including the recording of total quantities processed and ensuring that the correct prices are paid to scrap collectors. This transparency in operations was greatly appreciated by the students.

Learning Outcomes:

The visit proved to be an eye-opening experience for the students. They gained an in-depth understanding of the recycling process and the environmental impact of plastic wastes, the students internalized the importance of responsible waste disposal and the potential of recycling to reduce pollution. Additionally, they became aware of the social issues linked to the recycling industry, such as fair wages and ethical labor practices.

The students were particularly moved by the vast quantities of plastic waste produced by society and the immense effort required to manage it. This visit reinforced their sense of responsibility toward reducing plastic consumption and promoting alternatives to environmental sustainability in their daily lives.

The visit to ‘Plastic for Change’ factory was not only educational but also inspiring. The students and teachers appreciated the organization’s commitment to both social and environmental causes. At the conclusion of the visit, we expressed our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Jayanthi, Mr.Ranjith, and Mr. Nithin for their time, detailed explanations, and the opportunity to witness firsthand how recycling contributes to a greener planet.

This industrial study visit left a lasting impression on the students, instilling in them the importance of recycling for reuse and environmental conservation.