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With single-use plastic ban, cos look for eco-friendly alternatives
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Tuesday, 05 July, 2022, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Ashwani Maindola, New Delhi
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With the Government of India moving ahead towards a complete ban on ‘Single Use Plastic (SUP) from July 1, 2022, the users appear to be preparing for solutions to sustain operations.
While the traders' organisation CAIT has asked their associates to follow the ban across the country, from restaurants to FMCG companies, all shall now look for alternatives and more environment- friendly packaging solutions.
Amit Juneja, CEO, Annakoot, a Delhi based sattvik restaurant chain, while welcoming the decision says that, although the ban would impact the day to day operations, but keeping in view the larger environmental goals, he welcomes the move and his restaurant would look for alternatives.
Juneja says, "In the more aware and environment-conscious world, plastic use is creating many environment-related issues. This ban is an incredible initiative by the government, which might have some downside in the industry, but was needed to improve nature and its health. Since it might affect our industry and everyday functioning, there can be some solutions that will prove to be an alternative for single-use plastic items. One of the options could be to minimise the cutlery sent in delivery orders.”
He added that some biodegradable solutions can be used, like the ones made of paper.
“We can opt for paper straws instead of plastic straws. Using paper bags and eliminating plastic bags can be another effective solution. Lastly, if we buy ingredients or essentials in bulk, we can avoid plastic wrappings and bubble wraps," he remarked.
Vikas Kumar Agarwal, founder, Go Grocer, a Noida based packaged grains and spices brand, while welcoming the decision, says, “ As our customers are getting more aware each day, we believe the government's decision to ban single-use plastic has come at the right time. FMCG brands today focus more on making conscious choices that create a better impact on our environment. After the move, brands that were not taking this initiative have gotten to know how single-use plastics are not biodegradable. Also, in this age of technology and awareness, we can find other alternatives - that will help sustain our business and services. Hence, consumers and brands will witness a massive shift to reusable alternatives. The majority of the polythene bags will be replaced by jute or paper bags which is a convenient substitute supporting the move.”
It is pertinent to mention here that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, notified the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, on August 12, 2021, to curb pollution caused by littered and unmanaged plastic waste.
“India will ban manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of identified single-use plastic items, which have low utility and high littering potential, all across the country from July 1, 2022,” reads an official statement by the Government.
The Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, also prohibit manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of plastic carry bags having thickness less than 75 microns with effect from September 30, 2021, and having thickness less than 120 microns with effect from December 31, 2022.
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