In a first, Delhi University college sets up handmade paper recycling unit

Delhi University's Zakir Hussain College has launched a waste minimisation initivative by setting up a handmade paper recycling unit, the first of its kind programme by any college of the pretigious varsity.

"We have decided not to purchase any paper for official use now, we will recycle it here on campus and use it for all files and other purposes," said Principal Dr Pervaiz Aslam. The college has set up a handmade paper laboratory with an investment of around Rs 4 Lakh. The lab has two units-pulp maker and press.

"We have invited experts for imparting training to our students and teachers to help them acquire required skills. Once acquainted, they will start the paper production," he added.
Though the college plans to recycle the used paper first, machines have also been set up to manufacture fresh paper.

"Handmade Papermaking is a traditional industry of India. At present, it uses only cellulose-rich materials such as cotton rags, waste paper, hosiery waste etc. This could easily be extended to the use of biomass materials and agricultural residues," the Principal said.

"At our laboratory, we will focus on utilising commonly grown weeds such as Lantana, Parthenium, Eichornia and agricultural waste for making paper to avoid wastage of green cover being used for the purpose," Aslam added.

The unit has been set up under the varsity's Innovation project with the help of experts from Cellulose and Paper Division, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. 

The college also plans to offer hands-on training in paper manufacturing and recycling to students and teachers of other DU colleges so that similar units could be set up in their respective colleges too.