India: Gangtok inaugurates dedicated E-Waste Collection Facility, building on IURC circular economy cooperation

Gangtok, India ? 14 August 2026: Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC) inaugurated a dedicated E-Waste Collection Facility at the Martam Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility, marking an important step towards advancing circular economy and responsible resource management in India.

The facility was inaugurated by Mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia, in the presence of Deputy Mayor Sara Lama, municipal representatives and partners. It will support the systematic collection, segregation and safe channelisation of electronic waste to authorised recyclers and vendors.

The initiative reflects the international knowledge exchange promoted through CoP 8: Circular Economy Urban Centre’s within the the 国际城市和区域合作方案. Gangtok’s engagement with IURC has provided exposure to international practices in circular economy, resource recovery, repair, reuse and recycling, supporting the city’s efforts to translate international learning into concrete local action.

The facility will form part of GMC’s proposed Centre of Excellence for Waste to Wellness, promoting responsible e-waste collection while exploring opportunities for repair and refurbishment before recycling and safe disposal.

The initiative provides a tangible example of how IURC city-to-city cooperation and knowledge exchange can contribute to locally driven circular economy solutions, with potential lessons for other cities in India and internationally.