The Indian Army is associated with numerous efforts to conserve nature and promote a sense of responsibility toward the environment. As a step in the same direction, Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Kilo has undertaken an environment project for recycling of used Tetra Pak cartons, in association with Tetra Pak India.

"Milk in Tetra Pak cartons is authorized to troops as part of their entitled ration. Approximately 45 Lac cartons in one liter get utilized in 15 Corps every year. So far, there is no mechanism to recycle these cartons and they are disposed of locally. CIF Kilo, therefore, took upon itself the task to collect and recycle the cartons, with support from Tetra Pak who has helped set up the necessary recycling infrastructure," said a representative from the Indian Army.

 

 

As part of this, a compacting plant has been set up at Haiderbeg, a central location, so that the local government bodies, NGOs, and ecologically concerned populace can also send their empty Tetra Pak cartons, which can be responsibly disposed-of through this effort. Compacted bales will be sent from here to Khatima (Uttarakhand) for recycling into paper and other useful products.

Tetra Pak India, a leading packaging and processing solutions company, has been actively committed to environmental causes, working with the Army in other parts of India as well. The company has provided the compacting machine for this plant and will continue to provide technical expertise and support to the project.

"Tetra Pak cartons are fully recyclable and can be recycled into various useful products - like desks,

 

benches, roof sheets, and notebooks. At Tetra Pak, we have invested ahead of the curve to build a sustainable recycling eco-system for used cartons across the country. We have been working with the Indian Army to set up several collection centers, and it is a matter of honor for us to partner with CIF Kilo on this noble initiative," said Pravin Mallick, environment director, Tetra Pak South Asia Markets.

The compacting plant was inaugurated by Maj Gen AK Singh, SM, VSM, GOC CIF (K) in the presence of many of the local populace. The ceremony was attended by civilian dignitaries and Mallick.