Hot Topics : Plastic Pollution: A Chemical Conundrum (GS-1 Mains or GS-3 Mains)
Question : How can the global issue of plastic pollution, as highlighted by a recent European report revealing the presence of potentially hazardous chemicals in plastic materials, be addressed effectively?
- A recent European report finds 16,000 chemicals in plastic materials globally, with a quarter potentially hazardous.
Health and Environmental Impacts
- Plastic chemicals can leach into food and water, posing health risks.
- Solving plastic pollution requires addressing the full life cycle of plastics, including the chemicals used.
Recycling and Reuse Limitations
- The plastics industry promotes recycling and reuse, but these alone are insufficient.
- Greater transparency is needed on the chemicals used in plastics, including recycled products.
- The chemical complexity of plastics and lack of regulations hinder responsible management.
Plastic Pollution in India
- Plastic waste generation has surged from 15.9 lakh TPA (2015-16) to 41.2 lakh TPA (2020-21).
- Inadequate waste management infrastructure leaves half of plastic waste uncollected, polluting land and water.
- Data gaps and inefficiencies in the recycling system further complicate the issue.
Measures Required
- Reliable assessment of plastic waste generation is essential for effective management.
- Mandatory online reporting of plastic waste data is needed.
- A comprehensive policy is required to address plastic pollution.
- Research and development for cost-effective alternatives to plastic are crucial.
- Public awareness about eco-friendly alternatives and the dangers of single-use plastics is vital.
Indian Government Initiatives
- Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016: Bans certain single-use plastic items.
- Ban on SUP (July 1, 2022): Prohibits specific hard-to-recycle single-use plastic items.
- Prohibition on thin plastic carry bags (December 31, 2022): Bans bags less than 120 microns thick.
- National Policy on Solid Waste Management, 2016: Promotes waste minimization, segregation, and processing.
- EPR Rules: Establish producer responsibility for plastic waste collection and recycling.
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Promotes waste segregation and processing, indirectly impacting plastic waste.
- Indian Swachhata League: Encourages youth participation in clean-up activities.
The Way Forward
- A multi-pronged approach involving government, industry, civil society, and individuals is necessary.
- Effective implementation of existing regulations, technological advancements, and a shift towards a circular economy are key to tackling plastic pollution.
Source : https://www.thehindu.com/tag/plastic-pollution/