On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) hosted its 5th International Conference in New Delhi, focusing on the theme “Revolutionising Mobility: Driving the Automotive Industry Towards a Clean and Circular Future.” The event brought together government representatives, industry leaders, and environmental experts to discuss actionable solutions for transitioning India’s automotive sector toward circular economy practices.
The day-long event featured four key sessions addressing issues such as waste management, plastic reduction, tyre and used oil recycling, and sustainable battery and e-waste disposal. These sessions drew on current global best practices and emerging technologies. The opening session placed particular emphasis on Mission LiFE, India’s framework for encouraging responsible environmental behaviour. SIAM President and Tata Motors executive Shailesh Chandra outlined the need for stronger policy direction, scrappage incentives, and enhanced recycling infrastructure to realise the promise of circular mobility.
Adding an international perspective, Brazil’s Ambassador to India, Kenneth Nobrega, highlighted bilateral cooperation on biofuels and called for implementation-focused action ahead of COP30. In a complementary address, Dr Hanif Qureshi of the Ministry of Heavy Industries detailed the government’s strategy involving ethanol blending, support for electric and hydrogen vehicles, and a new electric truck initiative backed by a INR 500 crore fund.
The conference also explored the future of hydrogen mobility. Abhay Bakre of the National Green Hydrogen Mission noted that India has sanctioned ten hydrogen refuelling corridors and aims to deploy over 1,000 hydrogen-powered trucks by 2030. He stressed that this transition is likely to gain traction faster than anticipated due to evolving supply chains and growing demand in transport.
The sessions also featured detailed discussions on how the automotive sector is engaging with plastic reduction strategies and adopting biodegradable materials. Experts from government bodies, industry associations, and consulting firms discussed the practical aspects of waste traceability and end-of-life resource management.
Another focal point of the event was the innovation in tyre and used oil recycling technologies. Speakers from the Commission for Air Quality Management, tyre manufacturers, and lubricant producers shared examples of how legacy waste streams can be repurposed to reduce environmental harm. Similarly, the final session on battery and e-waste addressed regulatory frameworks and corporate initiatives aimed at making energy storage more sustainable.
SIAM’s Director General Rajesh Menon reaffirmed the industry's pledge to take meaningful steps across powertrains, waste streams, and fuel technologies. Executive Director Prashant K Banerjee later echoed this sentiment, emphasising SIAM’s alignment with India’s climate goals and its proactive stance in promoting electric, gas-based, ethanol, and hydrogen mobility solutions.
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