As part of plastic pollution control, a nationwide ban on single-use plastic came into effect on July 1. As plastic has been posing a threat to the environment this step has been taken by the Central government. Let’s see what items are banned and the consequences if violated?
Earbuds (with plastic sticks), plastic sticks for balloons, plastic flags (with plastic sticks), candy sticks (plastic sticks) for peppermint, ice cream sticks, thermocol used for decoration, plastic spoons, straws, thin plastic used for packing boxes, cigarette packets, PVC banners within 100 microns and stirrers used to mixing liquids.
Alternatively, paper, jute, glass, wood, stainless steel and bamboo can be used, which are not harmful to the environment. According to the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules 2021, the above ban has come into force.
Manufacturing, selling, importing, storing and distributing any of these are punishable under the Environmental Protection Act 1986. A maximum jail term of up to five years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh will be imposed. If the violations continue an additional fine of Rs 5,000 per day will be imposed.
The implementation of the single-use plastic ban is constantly monitored by the National Control Room of the Pollution Control Board. Under its auspices, awareness programmes like seminars and social media campaigns will be conducted in industries and educational institutions.
