Kochi, October 3, 2026: Kerala aims to transform itself into a zero-waste state within the next two to three years, with model waste-management plants and waste-to-power facilities planned as part of a broader cleanliness initiative, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan has said.
The Chief Minister announced the goal while inaugurating the state-level ‘Nirmalam Puthuyuga Suchithwa Keralam’ campaign at North Paravur. The initiative, led by the Local Self-Government Department, seeks to strengthen scientific waste management while encouraging greater public participation in keeping Kerala clean.
Under the proposed approach, local bodies will play a major role in collecting and scientifically treating waste that cannot be processed at its source. Greater attention will also be given to emerging waste-management challenges, including electronic waste and chemical waste.
The government also plans to create greater public awareness about waste segregation and scientific disposal methods. Households are expected to play an important role by separating and responsibly managing waste before handing over material requiring specialised treatment.
Satheesan stressed that Kerala needs to develop a stronger culture of cleanliness and responsible waste disposal. He also highlighted the economic potential of recycling and scientific waste management, calling for a shift in the way society views discarded materials.
Local Self-Government Minister K. M. Shaji said the initiative should not be viewed as a temporary cleanliness drive. Instead, the ‘Nirmalam’ programme is envisaged as a five-year mission aimed at making Kerala one of the cleanest states.
The government hopes that improved infrastructure, stronger local-body participation, scientific processing facilities and behavioural changes among residents will help Kerala move progressively towards its zero-waste target.
