Hyderabad witnesses a rise in plastic waste generation during the post-Covid period compared to pre-Covid period. One can see heaps of plastics material discarded on roads, lakes and other areas thereby affecting nature’s health. Plastic is not only harmful to nature but also to us. Despite, the Telangana government, along with various industries and organisations have implemented many initiatives such as using organic matter such as plant fibres, wood and flowers to make paper or cloth carry bags, bio bricks, tiles and puffed cloth toys to combat plastic usage, the reduction is very low compared to the amount of plastic waste generated in the city.
As per the data released by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in 2023, of the 8,000 metric tonne (MT) waste generated in the city, on an average, daily, 1,080 MT or 14.5 per cent is plastic waste. On the eve of World Earth Day, environmentalists and social activists have voiced their opinion on curbing the usage of plastic effectively in the present and coming years as well.
Prof Purushotham Reddy, an environmentalist said, “The first step the Telangana government needs to take to crub plastic usage is to completely ban plastic manufacturing units.”
Madhulika, an environmentalist said, “Plastic has increased due to corona. Compared to the pre-Covid period, a majority of areas are covered with heaps of plastic waste. With regards to industries which are using alternatives to plastic or converting plastic for making roads etc are not getting sufficient plastic. Ban on plastic manufacturing units will definitely make a difference but this needs a very strong will.”
Mohammad Abid Ali, a social activist said, “To effectively reduce plastic usage, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Stringent regulations and incentives should target manufacturing industries to reduce plastic production and encourage eco-friendly alternatives.
