Paper recycling unit set up inside MTR

A recycling unit to process and reuse the paper waste collected within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) was inaugurated by the Forest Secretary Md. Nasimuddin on Monday.

The unit, set up at a cost of ₹11 lakh, is being run by the Kanchikolli Eco-Development Committee, with support from the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and the Shola Trust.

Speaking to The Hindu, Subhash Gautam, Managing Trustee of the Shola Trust, said that paper waste was being collected by forest staff from within the reserve regularly. “Even the canteen and the eco-shop generate a fair amount of paper waste, which can be recycled and reused,” Mr. Subhash said.

Initially, the recycled paper would be turned into carry bags and envelopes, while there are plans to add more value to the products in the future. The recycling unit can process up to 10 kg of waste paper each day in three to four batches, and will provide employment to five people from adivasi communities in the area.

“All the products are to be sold through the Theppakadu EDC Shop, which will add another layer of benefit for the tribals, while there are plans to set up more recycling units in Moyar and Masinagudi,” added Mr. Subhash.

Srinivas R. Reddy, Field Director of MTR, and V. A. Saravanan, Deputy Director, were also present at the inauguration of the recycling unit.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Reddy said that the recycling unit would provide employment to local communities and ensure that the reserve was free of litter.

The project was funded partly by the Central Government’s Department of Science and Technology and the Forest Department.