Advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at Lucro

We recognize that the external environment in which we operate is dynamic and constantly evolving. To remain aligned with our purpose, mission, and values, we conduct regular materiality assessments to identify and prioritize the ESG topics most important to our stakeholders—and where we can make the most meaningful impact. These insights directly inform our ESG framework and reporting.

Gender Equality

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. At our facilities, we are actively promoting gender equality through sound policies and practices that empower all women. We continue to strengthen internal systems to create a safe, supportive, and opportunity-rich environment for female employees across all levels.

Clean Water and Sanitation

Lucro is conscious of its water footprint. At our waste washing plant, 100% of the water (with a ~5% evaporation loss) used is recycled to avoid exerting further stress on groundwater levels. We are also implementing rainwater harvesting systems to further reduce freshwater consumption and support water sustainability.

Decent Work and Economic Growth

We support the livelihoods of waste-pickers by paying 15–20% higher rates than prevailing market prices at our collection centers. Currently, about 20% of our sourced waste comes directly from waste-pickers. Beyond fair pricing, we facilitate financial inclusion by assisting in the opening of bank accounts, creating vendor passports and hosting regular seminars to train waste-pickers on improving their income potential.

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Innovation lies at the core of Lucro’s operations. Through our Material Science division, we invest in R&D to develop new material applications and ensure that our products not only use recycled waste but are also 100% recyclable at end of life. Our collaborative efforts with partners also help accelerate the adoption of recycled materials in packaging. Furthermore, we have made strategic infrastructure investments to expand recycling capacity and set new benchmarks for the industry.

Responsible Consumption and Production

Lucro embraces a circular economy model by designing products for recyclability and using post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic in our packaging. We have achieved zero operational waste, ensuring that all plastic generated during operations is reintegrated into the recycling stream. Our procurement strategy emphasizes sustainability by sourcing waste from diverse channels—waste-pickers, aggregators, municipalities, and gram panchayats—through competitive, collaborative partnerships.

Climate Action

Since launching our recycling operations in 2014, Lucro has been working to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. For every tonne of plastic we recycle and divert from landfill or incineration, we prevent approximately 1.37 tonnes of CO₂-eq emissions, which includes saving 35,003 MJ of energy, and conservsing 12 m³ of water—contributing meaningfully to climate change mitigation in India.

Life Below Water

Lucro helps combat marine pollution by collecting and recycling ocean-bound plastic waste—material located within 50 km of the coastline that is at high risk of entering oceans. Certified in the collection of ocean-bound plastic, we ensure this mismanaged waste is transformed into high-value products, thereby creating a closed-loop circular system that helps keep our oceans clean.

Life on Land

Mismanaged plastic waste threatens both biodiversity and human health. Our robust collection system—which is currently capable of processing 30,000 MTPA of post-consumer waste—reduces land pollution, protects ecosystems, and curtails methane emissions from landfills. Through this, Lucro plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity and building healthier, more sustainable communities.

Our Commitment

Lucro remains committed to integrating sustainability at every level of its operations. By aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we aim to scale our impact and contribute to building a more equitable, resilient, and circular future.