State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), Odisha will soon install cotton bag vending machines in some areas of the State including Bhubaneswar to provide a viable alternative to polythene bags.
Like ATM machines, people can avail of a cotton bag from the machine by depositing Rs 5.
Most places have failed to ensure an effective ban on polythene bags which are polluting the environment besides choking drains and water bodies.
As per Dr. K. Murugesan, Member Secretary of SPCB, Odisha, the initiative will go a long way in curbing polythene pollution in the State.
Informing about the initiative, Murugesan said, “Awareness of people is important to curb polythene pollution and save the environment. Instead of polythene, people can use eco-friendly carry bags made of textile waste dispensed through the machines cost-effectively.”
“The initiative will help in creating awareness among people to curb polythene pollution and save the environment in the State,” said Murugesan.