Overview
The Indian Beverage Association (IBA), representing leading non‑alcoholic beverage manufacturers in India, issued a press release on 29 September 2026 expressing full support for the sustainability commitments contained in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration. The declaration emphasizes integrated waste management, material circularity and resource efficiency, and the IBA views these as aligning with the sector’s existing initiatives.
Key Statements
Secretary General Dr. Gunveena Chadha stated that the declaration’s recognition of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), eco‑design and sustainable public procurement as national policy instruments mirrors actions already taken by the Indian beverage industry. She noted that member companies have made significant investments in packaging redesign, lightweighting, and the development of PET collection and recycling systems.
Regulatory Alignment
The IBA highlighted that India’s beverage sector was an early adopter of EPR frameworks under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s Plastic Waste Management Rules. Member firms are actively partnering with waste‑collection agencies, urban local bodies and recycling enterprises across the country to comply with these rules.
Support for BRICS Initiatives
The association welcomed the declaration’s call for enhanced monitoring mechanisms and increased investment in recovery infrastructure, describing it as consistent with ongoing industry efforts to build robust, traceable and verifiable circularity systems. IBA also expressed support for the proposed Network of BRICS Institutions to Advance Knowledge Sharing, Research and Innovation in Sustainable Lifestyles, viewing it as a platform for cross‑border collaboration on packaging innovation, alternative materials and recycling technologies. Additionally, IBA welcomed the prospect of a BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week in 2026, citing its potential to raise consumer awareness on responsible consumption and disposal practices.
Commitment Going Forward
IBA reiterated its intention to work closely with policymakers, implementing authorities and recycling partners to strengthen India’s integrated waste‑management ecosystem and to support national priorities on circularity as the country scales its manufacturing and consumption base. The association emphasized that sustainable growth requires shared responsibility among producers, consumers and governments.