International Plastic Bag Free Day 2023: Experts say awareness, stringent laws keys to effective implementation of ban

Even as the State government imposed a ban on the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of select single-use plastic items, the rule has gone for a toss, as there is a free run in the circulation of polythene and plastic bags in Odisha.

Although the rule was sternly implemented initially for a few days, complacency crept in gradually resulting in rampant use of polythene bags. Despite big claims by the government, these non-biodegradable bags continue to be used in grocery stores, vegetable markets, and even big stores without any hindrance.

Furthermore, the banned plastic items are found everywhere in drains and garbage bins, thereby causing flood-like situations during rains. They also pose a threat to stray animals that consume them and also create environmental issues during garbage burning.

“There will be a complete ban on polythene only when the manufacturing is stopped. They continue to allow manufacture and conduct raids on small shopkeepers like me. How will such moves end plastic? It will never end until the manufacturing continues,” said Manash Kumar Dwivedi, a shopkeeper in Cuttack.

Voicing his opinion, Mayadhar Pradhan, a resident of Cuttack said, “Government is imposing fines on customers and small-time shopkeepers. This is just eyewash, while the actual perpetrators who are manufacturing polythene and spreading it in the market are earning good money.”

Similarly, a paper bag businessman called out the government to strictly impose a plastic ban and instead promote paper and disposable bags.

“There were several paper bag businessmen in the state. However, with plastic bags still being used rampantly in the market, the manufacturing of paper bags has declined once again. Government is also not coming up with any policy and promoting paper bags,” said Biswanath Jha. 

Meanwhile, many intellectuals are of the opinion that the plastic ban will be of no use until government spreads awareness and implements stringent laws.