PANAJIPlastic pollution is a problem that the whole world is facing together. Despite mainstream garbage disposal techniques, plastic manages to make its way into water sources, often ending up in sensitive natural areas. Since their introduction in the 1960s, plastic bags have revolutionised our lives. However, five trillion plastic bags are used worldwide annually, and an estimated 10% end up in the ocean. Considering plastic waste does not degrade at a sustainable rate, the time has come to say “no” to plastic bags and opt for environmentally friendly alternatives. The Ministry of Environment and Forests recently released a list of single-use plastic items to be banned, paving the way for reducing plastic pollution in the country and eventually eliminating it. IPSHEM-ONGC, in association with TERI, concluded a 15-day Swachhata campaign from July 1 to July 15, which included awareness programmes on waste management, cleanliness drives, and a “Say no to single-use plastic” day which included the distribution of cloth bags to ONGC staff, school students and locals.
