The Plastic Catastrophe

Water contamination due to plastic pollution is a real concern in the entire country, including Northeast India

- Dr Juby Thomas

Over the last few years, several researchers across the globe have advocated that plastic contamination is badly affecting our marine sector, agricultural sector, and wildlife. In fact, a latest study on plastic contamination in drinking water revealed that it is affecting human health as well. The ‘Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016’ still stands, but implementation is lacking in both rural and urban India. We need to understood that partially banned plastics in some pilgrimage centres, tourist and historical places cannot save India from water contamination.

To no surprise, the Indian government, responsible for ideation and implementation of plastic waste management rules, is one of the biggest consumers. Airlines, railway and bus services by the State and Central government still distribute food, beverages and drinking water in plastic containers. Also, with changes in consumption pattern and consumer behaviour, PET bottles and plastic wrapping are common.

But the most disturbing fact is the improper disposal of plastic. In particular, plastic carry bags are the biggest contributors of littered waste and every year, millions of plastic bags end up in the soil, water bodies, etc. Considering it takes an average of a thousand years to decompose completely, plastic waste is a big issue that needs to be dealt with as urgently as possible.

Waging a Losing War?