Ban on single-use plastic comes into effect from July 1
New Delhi [India], July 1: Centre orders ban on single-use plastic with the effect from July 1 in order to reduce plastic wastage. The initiative can be the big contributor to plastic pollution as single-use plastics are typically items that are discarded after being used only once and does not go for the recycling process. Also Read: Eknath Shinde to be new Maharashtra CM, to take oath on June 30 The adverse impacts and menace of littered single-use plastic items plastic on both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are globally recognized. The banned items include earbuds with plastic sticks, plastic sticks for balloons, plastic flags, candy sticks, ice-cream sticks, polystyrene (thermocol) for decoration, plates, cups, glasses, cutlery such as forks, spoons, knives, straw, trays, wrapping or packing films around sweet boxes, invitation cards, and cigarette packets, plastic or PVC banners less than 100 microns and stirrers. Central Pollution Control Board monitors the enforcement of the ban, besides asking the state boards to undertake comprehensive Awareness activities including social media campaign, interactive meetings with industries, colleges, schools and other institutions. The state boards have further been directed to intensify inspections of industrial and commercial establishment for effective implementation of the ban. Carrying forward the spirit of 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava' -- 75th year of Independence, a defining step to curb pollution caused by littered and unmanaged plastic waste is being taken by the country. Also Read: Relief for PSPCL as power demand dips due to rainfall in Punjab Earlier also the government prohibited manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of plastic carry bags having thickness less than seventy-five microns. -PTC News