Designing zero plastic policy and its implementation: major role of Law to protect environment, Plastic everywhere

Abstract

Plastic, hydrocarbon-based material, which has become symbolic of the ‘Plastocene’ throwaway culture, is now perceived as a severe global environmental threat. The threat is linked to its manufacture and disposal. Since most plastics are made from petroleum or natural gas, there is a direct link between over dependence on fossil fuels and climate change. Synthetic plastic does not biodegrade; it accumulates. Microscopic plastic particles are present in the air throughout the world and in all major oceans. Further, plastic packaging is a significant source of landfill waste. As a result marine and land animals regularly consume plastic in all its forms with fatal consequences for both biodiversity and ecosystems. In addition, there are broader implications for other rights, such as the rights to food and health whose realisation is affected by plastic entering the food chain.

The Environmental Protection Act, 1986 is enforced by the Central Pollution Control Board and the numerous state Pollution Control Boards. The National Green Tribunal established under the National Green Tribunal Act of 2010 has jurisdiction over all environment cases dealing with a substantial environment question and acts covered under the water (Prevention acts Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

There have been several policy initiatives banning specific plastic products by state and central governments in India. 17 states have passed legislations banning the manufacture, stock, sale and use of plastic bags. Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Delhi and Chandigarh have enacted total bans on plastic bags. Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal have enacted bans in some areas within their states.

Now we are more concerned about the uses of plastic and we are implementing it, in various ways to curb the plastic pollutant in the environment, such as using it in the construction of roads, making plastic bricks and making of railways slippers.