Kerala HC bans single-use plastic in hilly areas, hotels
RELEVANCE : ENVIRONMENT
Kerala High Court issued an order banning the use of single-use plastic items in hilly areas where visitors converge in large numbers, at functions like weddings and also in eateries.
What is Single-Use plastic?
▪ A “plastic item intended to be used once for the same purpose before being disposed of or recycled.” o It has the highest shares of plastic manufactured and used — from packaging of items to bottles (shampoo, detergents, cosmetics), polythene bags, face masks, coffee cups, cling film, trash bags, food packaging etc.
Global Concerns:
- Projected to account for 5–10% of global GHG emissions by 2050 if current production continues.
- Often ends up in landfills or oceans, posing a long-term ecological hazard.
Status in India
SUP Ban:
- 2021: India banned 19 single-use plastic items (e.g. cutlery, straws, packaging film).
- Covers ~0.6 million tonnes annually.
- 2022: Introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for remaining SUPs, especially packaging.
Many non-banned items (like multilayered packaging) are non-recyclable, yet widely used.
Key Stats (Plastic Waste Makers Index, UNEP):
- India ranks:
- 3rd in total SUP waste (5.5 million tonnes/year)
- 94th in per capita use (4 kg/year)
- 85% of plastic waste in India is mismanaged.
Challenges in Tackling Single-Use Plastics
- Lack of Alternatives: Biodegradable or reusable options are expensive or underdeveloped.
- Cost and Convenience: SUPs are cheap and convenient → high consumer preference.
- Infrastructure Deficit: Poor waste segregation and recycling systems, especially in rural/urban-slum areas.
- Weak Enforcement: Ban violations are common due to poor monitoring and penalties.
- Livelihood Impact: Many workers and MSMEs depend on SUP manufacturing and sales.
Way Forward:
- Promote R&D in biodegradable materials
- Strengthen EPR implementation
- Encourage citizen awareness and behavioural change
- Provide incentives for eco-friendly packaging industries
- Build robust plastic collection & recycling infrastructure
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