Plastic ban in India: Progress so far – Explained, pointwise

Introduction

The ban on single-use plastic in India has been a significant step towards addressing the plastic waste crisis and promoting sustainability. Since the ban was imposed, the government has taken various measures to enforce the regulations and raise awareness about the harmful impacts of plastic pollution. However, challenges persist, including the availability of affordable alternatives, resistance from certain sectors, and the need for improved waste management infrastructure. Despite these challenges, progress has been made, but there is still a long way to go in achieving a plastic-free India.  

About the decision for Plastic ban in India

The progress of the plastic ban in India has been driven by various legislative actions and global incidents that have highlighted the need for environmental conservation. The Plastic Waste Management and Handling Rules of 2011 laid the foundation for waste management, while the Plastic Waste Management Rules of 2016 focused on extended producer responsibility and plastic waste management strategies. In July 2022, the government imposed a ban on 19 single-use plastic items under the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021.  

This ban aligns with the global movement to combat plastic pollution, like, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA 5.2). It has also been influenced by countries like Rwanda and Kenya, which have also implemented similar measures 

What is the rationale behind the decision to plastic ban in India?

Plastic pollution crisis: India generated approximately 34.7 lahks (3.47 million) tonnes of plastic waste in 2019 and 2020. The escalating levels of plastic waste and its adverse effects on ecosystems, including marine pollution, prompted the need for urgent action.  

Insufficient recycling capacity: The recycling capacity in India is reported to be only half of the total plastic waste generated. A significant portion  ends up in landfills, rivers, and oceans, exacerbating the environmental challenges.  

Global concerns and international initiatives: The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) established an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to draft an international legally binding instrument to address plastic pollution. This global focus on tackling plastic waste influenced India’s decision to take measures to combat the issue domestically.  

Increasing per capita plastic waste: Plastic consumption in the country has risen at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7 per cent to 14 MT in the financial year 2016-17 to 20 million tonnes in 2019-20. This alarming trend emphasizes the urgent need to address the issue and reduce plastic consumption.  

Health hazards: Single-use plastic, particularly when used for food and beverage packaging, poses significant health risks. Plastic chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), can leach into food and beverages, potentially causing endocrine disruption and other adverse health effects when consumed.  

What is the progress made on single-use plastic ban in India?

Ban implementation: Regulatory agencies have conducted raids and spot-checks to seize banned single-use plastic items. For example, authorities in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Gurugram have reported seizing plastic items and imposing fines on violators.  

Increased awareness: The ban has raised public awareness about the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Awareness campaigns have been conducted to educate the public about the need to reduce plastic waste. For instance, during the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata, several pandals (temporary structures) showcased the theme of plastic and marine pollution to raise awareness.  

Development of alternatives: The ban has stimulated the development and availability of alternative products. Like, several companies have started producing biodegradable and compostable alternatives to single-use plastic items such as bags, cutlery, and packaging materials.  

Public participation: Citizens have actively engaged in reporting violations through apps and other platforms, aiding enforcement efforts. The Central Pollution Control Board launched the SUPCPCB app, which allows citizens to report the use of single-use plastics. This public participation helps in identifying and taking action against violators.  

State-level initiatives: Some states have taken proactive steps to enforce the ban and curb the use of single-use plastics. For example, in Bihar, the Bihar State Pollution Control Board has implemented measures to address the issue of single-use plastics.  

Transition to sustainable practices: Businesses and individuals have started adopting sustainable practices. For instance, several restaurants and food outlets have switched to eco-friendly alternatives such as paper straws, compostable cutlery, and biodegradable packaging materials. 

What are the steps taken by the government to enforce single-use plastic ban in India?

Plastic waste management rules (2016 and amendment 2021): The government took legislative action to address single-use plastic by imposing a ban on specific items, including spoons, straws, plates, and polythene bags. The ban was implemented in stages, with a prohibition on plastic bags less than 75 microns thick taking effect on September 30, 2021. To strengthen the ban further, bags less than 120 microns thick were prohibited from December 31, 2022.  

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): The concept of EPR was introduced as part of the government’s strategy. Under EPR provisions, manufacturers, brand owners, and importers became responsible for managing the plastic waste generated from their products. They were required to establish systems for the collection and recycling of plastic waste to ensure environmentally sound disposal and reduce the burden on the environment.  

Plastic waste management infrastructure: This involves improving waste collection, segregation, recycling, and disposal infrastructure. Investments are being made in recycling facilities and promoting circular economy models to reduce plastic waste and promote responsible plastic management.  

Incentives and support: To facilitate the transition away from single-use plastics, the government provided support and incentives to businesses. Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) were offered capacity-building workshops and technical assistance to develop alternatives to banned plastic items.  

Collaboration and coordination: To effectively implement the ban, the government collaborated with market committees and trade bodies. By working together, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and civil society groups aimed to address the plastic pollution challenge more comprehensively.  

Awareness campaigns: To educate the public about the harmful effects of single-use plastic and promote sustainable alternatives, the government organized public events and launched extensive awareness campaigns.

What are the challenges faced while enforcing single-use plastic ban in India?

What should be done?

Strict enforcement of the ban: Governments at all levels, including local, state, and national, need to ensure the strict enforcement of the ban on single-use plastic. This requires dedicated resources, monitoring mechanisms, and penalties for non-compliance. Authorities should conduct regular inspections, impose fines on violators, and take legal action against repeat offenders.  

Public awareness and education: Awareness and educational campaigns can be conducted through various channels, including schools, universities, mass media, and social media platforms. The focus should be on changing people’s behaviour and promoting the use of sustainable alternatives.  

Promote sustainable alternatives: The availability and affordability of sustainable alternatives to plastic, such as paper bags, cloth bags, and biodegradable materials, need to be increased. Governments can provide incentives and support to businesses that produce and use eco-friendly packaging materials. This can include tax breaks, subsidies, and grants for research and development of innovative solutions.  

Improve waste management infrastructure: Governments should invest in waste management facilities, recycling plants, and recycling awareness programs. This will help in reducing the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills, water bodies, and the environment. 

Encourage industry responsibility: Industries and companies that produce and use plastic should take responsibility for their waste. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs can be implemented. This can incentivize companies to reduce plastic packaging, invest in recycling technologies, and promote sustainable practices throughout their supply chains.  

International cooperation: Plastic pollution is a global issue that requires collaboration among nations. Governments should engage in international agreements and partnerships to address the problem collectively. Sharing best practices, knowledge, and technologies can accelerate progress in reducing plastic pollution.

Research and innovation: Continuous research and innovation are vital to finding sustainable alternatives to plastic and developing more efficient recycling methods. Governments, academic institutions, and private sectors should invest in research and development initiatives focused on finding innovative solutions to plastic pollution. 

Syllabus: GS 3: Environment and Bio-diversity: Environmental pollution and degradation.

Sources: Times of India (Article 1, Article 2 and Article 3), ORF, DW, Indian Express, DTE, Scroll and Tribune