नवीनतम
World Environment Day: Beat Plastic Pollution
NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: World Environment Day is being celebrated across the globe today. The day is observed to raise global awareness to take positive environmental action to protect nature and the planet Earth.
It is observed on 5th June every year since 1973 as part of the United Nations Environment Programme to build awareness to save life on planet Earth. The theme of this year’s World Environment Day is “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
India has been an active participant in celebrating World Environment Day for many years, carrying out numerous initiatives for plastic-waste management.
In this article, we will see the major initiatives of the Indian government concerning plastic pollution and environmental sustainability.
India’s Global Efforts to Fight Plastic Pollution
To tackle the rising problem of plastic pollution, India has joined hands with the global community by actively taking part in important international efforts. Here are some major steps India has taken on the world stage:
i) Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (2019):
In May 2019, India took part in key environmental meetings held in Geneva. These conventions aim to regulate harmful chemicals and hazardous waste. India strongly opposed the dumping of e-waste in developing countries.
It also played a vital role in adding plastic waste to the Basel Convention's Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure. This move helps in monitoring plastic waste trade and preventing illegal dumping. India also supported the global ban on single-use plastics.
ii) G20 Osaka Blue Ocean Vision (2019):
As part of the G20 Summit, India joined other countries in supporting the Osaka Blue Ocean Vision. This global plan aims to reduce marine plastic litter and stop plastic waste from entering oceans by 2050. India backed this mission to keep our seas clean and plastic-free.
iii) High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People (2021):
In January 2021, India joined this global group during the One Planet Summit in Paris. The goal is to protect at least 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. The coalition also works to control plastic pollution and conserve biodiversity.
List of Initiatives Taken By Indian Govt. For Environment Day 2025
India has put in place strong laws and policies to fight the growing plastic waste problem. The government is promoting responsible use, better recycling, and proper disposal of plastic.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has introduced several waste management rules under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. One of the key steps is the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, aimed at reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainability.
Key Highlights of the 2021 Rules:
1. Ban on Single-Use Plastics: From 1st July 2022, several single-use plastic items that are hard to recycle and often littered were banned.
2. Ban on Thin Plastic Bags: From 31st December 2022, plastic carry bags thinner than 120 microns were banned to reduce waste.
3. Ban on Lightweight Non-Woven Bags: From 30th September 2021, non-woven plastic bags below 60 GSM (grams per square meter) were also banned.
4. State-Level Efforts: Apart from national rules, many States and Union Territories have brought in their own bans or restrictions on single-use plastic items and bags.
