Kerala, renowned for its rich biodiversity and lush landscapes, is grappling with an escalating environmental challenge: plastic waste.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, the state generated a staggering 71,000 tonnes of plastic waste, more than double its black pepper production of 30,798 tonnes. This alarming statistic underscores a growing trend towards a disposable culture, with plastic waste infiltrating the state’s hills, water bodies, and open spaces. Despite official data from the Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) indicating a reduction in plastic waste from 1.31 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to 71,000 tonnes in 2023-24, experts express skepticism. They attribute this apparent decline to changes in waste segregation and collection practices rather than a genuine reduction in plastic consumption. The Haritha Karma Sena (HKS), a community-based initiative, has been instrumental in collecting plastic waste. However, improper segregation hampers effective recycling, leading to a significant portion being incinerated in cement kilns.
The state’s 2016 Plastic Waste Management Rules aimed to curb plastic usage and promote responsible disposal. These regulations mandated the segregation of plastic waste at the source, prohibited open burning, and emphasized the minimization of plastic waste generation. However, the prevalence of single-use plastics remains high, fueled by the rise of online food delivery services and the mall culture. Enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics has been inconsistent, and the influx of banned products continues unabated. Environmental scientists warn of the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on ecosystems. Microplastics have entered the food chain, disrupting soil and marine life. When plastic waste or microplastics enter the soil, they form a layer that impedes water percolation, affecting microbial growth and overall ecological balance. Similarly, in marine environments, fish ingest microplastics, impacting aquatic life and food security.
The unrestricted use of plastic in Kerala began in the 1990s, coinciding with the country’s embrace of globalization. Despite campaigns like ‘Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam’ aimed at reducing plastic waste, single-use plastics remain prevalent. Experts advocate for stricter enforcement of laws, the imposition of the ‘polluter pays principle,’ and a comprehensive ban on all single-use plastics. Additionally, integrating waste management education into academic curricula and promoting internships in waste management can equip the younger generation with the knowledge and skills to address this pressing issue. Local bodies are urged to assess the plastic waste generated within their jurisdictions based on population data. Establishing Material Collection Facilities (MCFs) and ensuring the collection of segregated waste can streamline the recycling process. However, challenges persist, including the accumulation of unsegregated waste due to financial constraints and inadequate infrastructure.
Activists emphasize the need for a paradigm shift in political education to foster environmental responsibility. Incorporating climate-resilient actions into political discourse can empower citizens to make informed decisions and contribute to sustainable waste management practices. In conclusion, Kerala’s plastic waste crisis necessitates a multifaceted approach involving stringent enforcement of regulations, public awareness campaigns, and infrastructural improvements. Only through collective efforts can the state mitigate the adverse impacts of plastic pollution and pave the way for a sustainable future.
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