Mega events, given their scale, present both a challenge and an opportunity to advance circular economy solutions—turning waste into valuable resources. As the focus on sustainability intensifies, organizers across the world are increasingly adopting innovative and eco-friendly solutions, a key one being the transformative use of recycled plastic.
The plastic predicament
Plastic waste is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. According to the United Nations, an estimated 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, with at least 8 million tons ending up in our oceans annually.Â
However, despite the challenges posed by plastic waste, it is extremely necessary to switch up perspectives – from considering waste as a burden to viewing it as a potential resource.Â
Recycled plastic is an important step in a broader shift towards sustainable materials management. When combined with reduction of virgin plastics, improved waste collection, and innovative recycling solutions, it can help minimize environmental impact. Across the globe, major events are embracing innovative uses of recycled materials, incorporating them in novel ways—from infrastructure to merchandise—and setting a new standard for sustainability in event management.Â
This shift is part of a larger movement toward sustainability, which has evolved from a mere buzzword to a critical business imperative, influencing industries worldwide. With growing regulatory frameworks—such as India’s Plastic Waste Management Rules and global mandates like the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework—there is increasing momentum toward adopting eco-friendly alternatives. As a result, many corporations are setting ambitious goals to incorporate over 25% recycled plastic into their packaging, reinforcing their commitment to environmental responsibility.
Recycled plastic: transforming waste into opportunity
Mega events are emerging as powerful platforms for implementing large-scale sustainable practices. The Mahakumbh Mela, recognized as the world’s largest human gathering, illustrates the potential for change. At the 2025 Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, authorities took steps to address plastic pollution through innovative recycling initiatives.
As part of the Green Mahakumbh initiative, measures adopted include restricting the supply of plastic bags, promoting eco-friendly alternatives such as dona (leaf bowls), pattal (leaf plates), kulhars (earthen cups), and reusable bags.Â
Companies played a pivotal role. Coca-Cola’s ‘Maidaan Saaf’ campaign demonstrated how cross-sector collaborations can contribute to sustainability efforts at scale. In partnership with local organizations and event authorities, the initiative introduced measures such as providing recycled PET jackets to sanitation workers, installing changing rooms for women made from recycled multi-layer plastic, equiping hydration carts with bottle collection bins, and deploying reverse vending machines (RVMs) at key locations. These efforts aimed to support waste management and recycling while fostering a more sustainable approach to large public gatherings.
Shared vision for sustainabilityÂ
The Mahakumbh is not an isolated example of sustainability in action. Across the globe, mega events are embracing environmental responsibility at their core. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, athletes stood on podiums crafted from recycled plastics collected from local communities, showcasing Japan’s commitment to sustainability.Â
The Glastonbury Festival in the UK set a precedent by banning single-use plastics and introducing reusable cups made from recycled materials. The FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar featured recycling stations at stadiums, collecting plastic waste that was later transformed into souvenirs and other items. Meanwhile, during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Ganesha Ecosphere, in collaboration with Coca-Cola India recycled PET bottles and converted them into yarn, which is used to create national flags and ICC unity flags
These efforts go beyond symbolic gestures; they exemplify the circular economy in action. By transforming waste into valuable resources, event organizers are not only reducing pollution but also driving local economic growth. Recycling initiatives create jobs, engage communities, and foster innovation, proving that sustainability can be both impactful and inclusive.
While progress has been made, challenges persist, particularly in strengthening waste collection and recycling infrastructure. Logistical complexities, insufficient collection networks, and gaps in processing capacity hinder large-scale impact. Addressing these issues requires collaboration, with companies working to enhance collection systems through strategic partnerships and investments in recycling technology. At the same time, public awareness and participation play a crucial role, as widespread behavioral change is essential for long-term success.
Effective solutions depend on collective action. Governments, businesses, and civil society must come together to drive meaningful progress. Policy incentives, such as tax benefits for sustainable practices, can encourage broader adoption, while awareness initiatives can empower individuals to actively contribute to a more sustainable future.
Powering a sustainable Future
The journey from waste to wonder exemplifies human ingenuity and the power of collective action. The use of recycled plastic at mega events not only mitigates environmental harm but also inspires millions to rethink their relationship with plastic.
As we look to the future, the hope is that every mega event will embrace sustainability at its core, leaving behind not just cherished memories but also a legacy of environmental stewardship. The Mahakumbh and similar initiatives around the globe prove that this vision is not just aspirational—it is already becoming a reality. By weaving sustainability into the fabric of our traditions and celebrations, we demonstrate that even the smallest actions—like recycling a bottle—can contribute to a more harmonious world.
(The writer, Yash Sharma, is founder, Go Rewise, a brand by Ganesha Ecosphere)
