A recent report titled ‘Alternative Products and Technologies to Plastics and their Applications’ has been released by the NITI Aayog. The objective of this report is to encourage the utilisation of plastic alternatives. Concurrently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has banned Single Use Plastics (SUP), imposing punitive actions for violations under Section 15 of the Environment Protection Act (EPA).
Report Findings on Global Plastic Production and Disposal
Between 1950 and 2015, the cumulative production of polymers, synthetic fibre, and additives amounted to a colossal 8,300 million tonnes. More than half of this production went directly to landfills or was discarded, with merely 6% being recycled. If the rate of production continues unchanged, a projected 12,000 million tonnes would be generated by 2050.
The Situation in India
India contributes significantly to this global issue, producing 3.47 million tonnes of plastic waste annually. Over the past five years, the per capita waste has escalated from 700 grams to 2,500 grams. Goa, Delhi & Kerala are leading in per capita plastic waste generation, contrasting with Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, which have reported the lowest per capita plastic waste generation.
Environmental Concerns
An alarming 97-99% of these plastics are derived from fossil fuel feedstock, with the remaining originating from bio-based plastics. Regrettably, only a small fraction of this waste is recycled. The majority leaks into the environment through pollutant pathways, causing significant damage. In India alone, only 60% of plastic waste is collected, leaving 40% uncollected and consequently damaging the environment.
Waste Management: Recommendations
The most viable solution for waste management is waste minimisation, which must be reinforced through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). It’s recommended to develop emerging technologies such as additives that can make polypropylene and polyethylene biodegradable. Furthermore, increased transparency in disclosing waste generation, collection, recycling or scientific disposal is required to counter greenwashing.
Exploring Plastic Alternatives
Alternatives such as glass, bagasse, bioplastics, and natural textiles are explored in this report. Glass has been the safest and more viable option for packaging food and drinks, considering its durability and recyclability. Bagasse, compostable and eco-friendly, can replace plastic in plates, cups or takeout boxes. Bioplastics are considered a green alternative to fossil fuel-based plastics, especially in food packaging. Natural textiles such as cotton, wool, linen, and hemp offer an alternative to polyester and nylon clothing.
Emphasis on Reusability
One of the most effective ways to reduce packaging damage is to use reusable or no packaging at all. Reusable fabric bags for fruits and vegetables, refillable bottles and jars for various liquids, beeswax wraps instead of foil and cling film are some more sustainable options.
Related Initiatives
Several initiatives have been launched to address the growing problem of plastic waste. These include the Plastic Waste Management rules 2016, Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Pollution Control Committees, India Plastics Pact, Project REPLAN, Un-Plastic Collective, GoLitter Partnerships Project and more.
