The use of single-use plastic (SUP) remains widespread in Karnataka despite longstanding bans. Bengaluru’s streets are cluttered with plastic bags, cups, and cutlery. The State faces enforcement challenges, illegal production, and low recycling rates. This article outlines the current scenario, health and environmental impacts, economic factors, enforcement issues, and policy gaps.
Current Status of SUP in Karnataka
Karnataka banned SUP manufacture and use in 2016, preceding the Union Government’s 2021 ban. Items such as plastic bags, straws, cutlery, and cling films are prohibited. Nevertheless, SUP is omnipresent in markets and eateries. Karnataka generates around 3.6 lakh tonnes of plastic waste yearly. Only 30% reaches recycling units. Bengaluru alone uses 500 tonnes of SUP daily, with 60% discarded improperly.
Environmental and Health Hazards
Microplastics from SUP degrade into particles smaller than 5 mm. Studies found microplastics in human placenta, indicating deep biological penetration. These particles cause health issues like inflammation, hypothyroidism, and respiratory problems. Environmentally, microplastics disrupt soil and aquatic ecosystems and harm microbial life. Urban animals ingest plastic, suffering fatal effects as nanoparticles accumulate in organs.
Illegal Production and Shadow Market
Despite bans, illegal SUP manufacture flourishes in Bengaluru. Over 300 unregistered units operate in industrial pockets such as Peenya and Kamakshipalya. These small-scale setups use raw materials like virgin plastic granules and colourants to produce cheap SUP. Illegal import and distribution networks also exist. Registered recycling units operate below capacity, unable to handle the volume of plastic waste.
Enforcement Challenges
Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) and civic bodies conduct raids and seizures. Between 2021 and 2024, over 1,65,000 establishments were inspected, with 1,012 tonnes of plastic seized. However, enforcement intensity has declined since 2022. Rural areas pose greater difficulties due to limited staff and low cooperation. Dealers evade raids by operating within trusted networks and denying stock.
Economic Drivers of SUP Demand
SUP production costs ₹50-80 per kg but sells at ₹300, making it highly profitable. Alternatives like cloth bags cost less but are less convenient. Retailers prefer SUP for ease and customer demand. Many consumers remain unaware of the ban or indifferent. This economic incentive fuels continued SUP use despite environmental risks.
Policy and Awareness Gaps
Waste segregation and collection remain inadequate, reducing recycling efficiency. Ragpickers play a vital role but lack support. Awareness campaigns are insufficient. Experts call for stricter laws and penalties. New municipal corporations in Bengaluru have pledged stronger enforcement and regular inspections. However, systemic issues like staff shortages and fragmented responsibility persist.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the impact of single-use plastics on human health and the environment in urban India.
- Examine the challenges of enforcing environmental laws in metropolitan areas and suggest effective measures.
- Analyse the role of economic incentives and consumer behaviour in perpetuating plastic pollution in developing countries.
- Estimate the effectiveness of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies in managing plastic waste in India and propose improvements.
