Surat

Gujarat Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia on Saturday said waste should now be viewed as a valuable resource instead of a problem. He made the remarks while addressing a seminar on “Enabling Gujarat’s Circular Transition: Policies, Partnerships and Pathways” under the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference.

Modhwadia said household waste is increasingly being used to generate energy and other useful products. He added that the Gujarat government is promoting a circular economy model that supports both environmental protection and economic growth.

The minister stressed that industrial development and sustainability must progress together. According to him, fly ash and waste materials from dumping yards are now being reused to create energy and other products without harming society or the environment.

He expressed confidence that Gujarat would play a leading role in achieving the state’s target of contributing two trillion dollars to the economy by 2050 through circular economy initiatives.

Minister of State for Forest and Environment Pravin Mali also addressed the seminar and highlighted the importance of balancing industrial growth with environmental conservation. He urged industries to adopt innovative technologies for environmental protection and help make Gujarat a model state for sustainable development.

During the panel discussion, industrialists and environmental experts discussed ways to maintain environmental safety while encouraging industrial expansion. Several participants shared ideas on sustainable production methods and better waste management practices.

The event was attended by Gujarat Pollution Control Board Surat Regional Officer Arun Patel along with industrialists, environmentalists and technology experts. Officials said the seminar aimed to encourage stronger partnerships and policies for promoting sustainable industrial growth across Gujarat in the coming years.