Panaji: State govt on Friday notified a policy framework for the management of used cooking oil (UCO), promoting its reuse as biodiesel while preventing it from re-entering the food chain. The policy aims to promote sustainable practices in handling waste cooking oil and reduce health and environmental risks associated with its improper disposal.UCO is considered a “second-generation” feedstock, as its use for fuel production does not compete with food crops such as corn or soy.The policy seeks to ensure that UCO is not reused for cooking, thereby reducing health risks associated with its consumption. It also promotes the collection and processing of UCO to produce biodiesel, animal feed and other products, helping conserve natural resources and reduce waste.It seeks to minimise the environmental impact of improper UCO disposal, including water pollution and soil contamination, through proper collection, storage and disposal systems.The policy also provides for awareness programmes to educate the public, food business operators and other stakeholders about proper UCO disposal and the benefits of recycling. Guidelines and regulations will be established and enforced for the safe collection, storage and disposal of UCO, with penalties for non-compliance.It further aims to create a market-driven incentive system to encourage the collection and recycling of UCO, promoting the principles of a circular economy and sustainability.
