Plastic Out, Progress In: West Bengal’s Bold Move for a Cleaner State

West Bengal is intensifying its campaign against single-use plastics, unveiling a comprehensive strategy to combat plastic pollution and safeguard the environment. The government’s multi-pronged approach aims to eliminate single-use plastics (SUPs) across the state and set a national example.

 

Cloth Bag Vending Machines:

Plans are underway to install subsidized cloth bag vending machines in markets, allowing citizens to easily access reusable alternatives and reduce dependence on plastic bags.

 

Plastic-Free Success Stories:

The Gangasagar Mela has been declared a “full plastic-free mela,” and plastic bags are now completely banned in ecologically sensitive tourist destinations like the Sundarbans and Digha Jagannath Dham.

 

Strict Enforcement and Penalties:

Civic bodies have been directed to impose fines for non-compliance, with the Environment Department prepared to adopt a stricter stance as needed. Manufacturing, stocking, and sale of plastic bags below 75 microns are punishable offenses.

 

Youth and Community Engagement:

Special initiatives are engaging school students and youth to foster environmental awareness and encourage responsible citizenship.

 

Processing and Recycling Expansion:

The state has registered 30 plastic waste processing units, with a focus on turning waste into wealth through improved recycling infrastructure.

 

Plastic Waste Challenge:

West Bengal generates 1,000 tonnes of plastic waste daily, with Kolkata alone contributing 400 tonnes per day. Annual state-wide plastic waste stands at 330,000 tonnes.

 

Research and Monitoring:

Studies reveal alarming levels of microplastics in the Hooghly River and city air, highlighting the urgent need for action.

 

Assembly Resolution:

The West Bengal Assembly is set to debate a resolution on eliminating SUPs, reinforcing the state’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

 

Source: Indian Express, Editorji, UNICEF India, Millennium Post, Times of India