Whatever happened to the many debates, discussions and resolutions taken by supermarkets and consumers to say ‘No’ to plastic? Indeed, we appreciated and welcomed the government’s ban on single-use plastic bags of more than 35 microns in thickness effective 2022.
Is that good enough to protect our environment from plastic pollution? I guess not.
On a recent holiday to India, it was noteworthy to see the steps taken on this subject. Supermarkets, malls, vegetable/fruit vendors including kirana shops (cold stores) do not provide plastic bags for purchases. Customers have to either carry their own bags or pay a small price for a paper bag. Alternatively, most small vendors recycle old newspapers to wrap the goods in.
A few hypermarkets in Goa have gone a step further by using biodegradable, compostable bags which look like plastic, are perfect for short term use and the good news is that they are made of cornstarch. After use, it can be safely dumped into compost waste which degrades under heat and moisture to non-toxic matter in the manure. Walla, I was impressed!
Costlier than plastic bags it is undoubtedly passed on to the consumer. It’s a price worth paying to ensure a sustainable and healthy environment for future generations. Yes, we love our plastic bags which are handy, perfect for garbage disposal, etc. But reports lament that landfills the world over are already overflowing with plastic bags, containers, cutlery, et al that could take billions of years to degrade. It is an alarming situation that needs to be addressed with continuous small steps, at the least.
Just last week, while shopping at a reputed market, I watched with dismay as the packer used four bags to pack 10 medium-sized dry items (yes, I was counting) for a customer. Check-out packers are contracted, low-income labourers, not trained for the job and one cannot grudge them for getting it wrong. The onus lies with both, the management of such outlets and buyers.
For years now, reusable grocery bags have been my constant companion in the car and when I travel. I learnt this the hard way 30 years ago on a trip to Switzerland when, I was charged for a small bag to carry my sandwich and water out.
I just hope the debate is reignited and reinforced with the support of all by saying ‘No’ to plastic. A small change in our habit could go a long way in keeping this beautiful island, that we call home, green and clean.
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