India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework has introduced a vital  structure for waste accountability, compelling producers to take responsibility for post consumer waste. However, as the landscape of sustainability evolves, simply adhering  to regulations is no longer sufficient. Companies are now expected to showcase real  circular outcomes—such as measurable recovery rates, verified recycling efficiencies,  reduced carbon footprints, and traceable material flows. 

This transformation is paving the way for technology-driven circular economy startups  that are steering India away from mere compliance towards genuine, scalable  circularity. By integrating digital infrastructure, data intelligence, and advanced  recycling and re-commerce systems, these innovators are redefining waste from a final  destination into a continuously circulating resource. 

Data and Digital Platforms: Redefining Circular Supply Chains 

At the core of this evolution is data. Unified material tracking platforms, real-time  compliance dashboards, and transparent reporting systems are empowering  businesses with enhanced visibility into their waste streams and environmental  impacts. Sustainability is increasingly viewed as a strategic advantage—one that fosters  cost efficiency, supply security, and credibility in environmental, social, and governance  (ESG) practices.

These startups are also bridging the longstanding divide between policy intentions and  practical implementation. By linking producers, recyclers, urban local bodies, and  service providers into accountable digital networks, they are helping India establish  resilient circular supply chains that bolster long-term economic growth and climate  objectives. 

Elima: Reimagining Value Through Re-commerce and Recycling 

Elima is dedicated to maximising the value of limited resources through its integrated  re-commerce and recycling platform. The company empowers businesses to effectively  manage products, materials, and waste across various categories, thereby extending  product lifecycles and minimising reliance on landfills. 

With a technology-driven approach, Elima facilitates the collection, segregation, reuse,  and recycling of diverse material streams. The company envisions circular economies  as the primary supply chains of the future and is developing the necessary  infrastructure to support this transition at scale. 

Eco Recycling: Setting Standards in E-waste Management 

Eco Recycling Ltd (Ecoreco) stands as one of India’s pioneering and most established e waste management firms. Over the years, it has established industry benchmarks  through environmentally responsible disposal and recycling practices. 

By prioritising compliance-driven, high-efficiency e-waste processing, Ecoreco has  been instrumental in formalising India’s electronic waste ecosystem and enhancing  producer accountability under EPR regulations. 

Recyclekaro: Closing the Loop on Battery Waste 

Recyclekaro is tackling one of India’s most pressing sustainability issues—battery  waste. Its facility in Palghar is designed to process up to 50,000 metric tonnes of  batteries annually by 2025, achieving over 90% material recovery with zero waste  discharge. 

The company recovers essential elements used in battery manufacturing, recycles 675  MWh of energy each year, and reuses significant battery capacity. By 2026, Recyclekaro  aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 350 metric tonnes, positioning itself as a key  player in India’s clean energy circular economy. 

Recykal: Building India’s Digital Backbone for Circularity 

Based in Hyderabad, Recykal has emerged as a leader in formalising India’s circular  economy through technology. Its managed marketplace connects producers, waste  generators, recyclers, urban bodies, and service providers across various waste  streams, including plastic, paper, metal, e-waste, tyres, and batteries.

With over 400 brands, more than 325 recyclers, 10,000+ businesses, and over 600  urban local bodies on its platform, Recykal has successfully channelled over 700,000  metric tonnes of waste. By digitising the entire waste management ecosystem, the  company is fostering transparency, scalability, and measurable circular impact across  industries.