About Product Stewardship
Product Stewardship & Advocacy
Our Responsibility Goes Beyond the Product
At IPUA, we believe product stewardship isn't just a practice, but rather it's a shared responsibility.
As a leading voice for India’s polyurethane industry, we are committed to promoting responsible manufacturing, safer product use, and stronger environmental safeguards across the value chain.
We focus on polyurethane foams, including Flexible Slabstock Foam and Rigid Insulation Foam and help guide the industry toward practices that are safer, smarter, and more sustainable.
For us at IPUA we focus our efforts through industry-wide advocacy, hands-on training, and by helping members stay up to date with compliance, safety, and global standards.
What Stewardship Means for the Polyurethane Industry
While manufacturers own the product, IPUA supports the ecosystem through:
- Advocating for Responsible Manufacturing
Promoting safety, quality standards, and transparency across polyurethane production processes. - Building Industry Readiness
Supporting members with training, global certifications, and regulatory awareness to meet modern demands. - Educating Stakeholders
Bridging gaps between manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers through dialogue, workshops, and policy alignment. - Upholding Standards
Encouraging compliance with national regulations and promoting access to global standards such as CertiPUR and ISOPA trainings.
IPUA’s Action Framework
We have launched two dedicated working committees to lead stewardship and advocacy efforts in key foam segments:
1. Flexible Slabstock Foam
Led by Mr. B. Balaji, this committee focuses on improving safety, compliance, and awareness across the flexible foam sector.
Ongoing Initiatives:
- Safety Training Programs for industry members
(Conducted in Bangalore and NCR; Ahmedabad scheduled for December 19) - ISOPA Tie-Up
Enabling online training on safe handling of isocyanates and related materials. - CertiPUR Certification Support
Helping member companies upgrade to global environmental standards. - Legislative Awareness Sessions
Interactive learning led by legal and industry experts on relevant statutory requirements.
2. Rigid Foam (Insulation)
Led by Mr. Pravin Mahajan, this committee is working to modernize and expand safe usage of rigid polyurethane foams.
Key Activities:
- Redesigning Product Standards
To ensure safer applications and compatibility with next-gen insulation needs. - Industry Collaborations
Partnering with allied associations to advocate for responsible and wider adoption of polyurethane-based insulation. - Training & Knowledge Exchange
Equipping members with insights on global trends, new applications, and compliance frameworks.
Why Product Stewardship Matters?
Safer End Products
When manufacturers adopt better standards, consumers benefit from safer, longer-lasting products.
Environmental Responsibility
Through recycling, emissions control, and better lifecycle management, we reduce the overall ecological impact.
Compliance & Credibility
A well-informed industry stays ahead of regulatory shifts and builds public trust.
Global Competitiveness
Adopting international certifications helps Indian manufacturers compete on the global stage.
How Can Your Organization be a Contributor
Whether you're a business, policymaker, or end-user, you have a role to play
Support Responsible Brands
Choose products and partners committed to sustainable practices.
Educate and Equip
Invest in knowledge, training, and collaboration.
Advocate for Better Systems
Push for policies and programs that enable circularity and accountability.
Focus Areas
1
Training and Skill Enhancement
- Hosting workshops and programs to educate industry professionals on training and webinars.
- Equipping members with knowledge to implement stewardship initiatives effectively.
2
Ownership and Responsibility
- Promoting accountability across the entire value chain—from production to disposal.
- Encouraging members to adopt responsible practices that align with stewardship principles.
Become a member and shape the future of polyurethane!
What’s Next?
Our journey doesn’t stop here. IPUA will continue to expand its advocacy across other polyurethane applications including:
Footwear Foams
Molded Foams
Elastomers
Specialty Applications
How You Can Be Part of It
- If you’re a Manufacturer
Join our training programs, upgrade to certifications like CertiPUR, and adopt best practices
- If you’re a Policy Stakeholder
Connect with IPUA to align industry goals with national sustainability and safety priorities
- If you’re a Partner or Consumer
Choose responsibly-made products and ask better questions about what you’re using
