16-05-2013, 11:55 AM
PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA
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Abstract
Plastic waste is recycled in India in an “unorganized” way. 60% of the plastic-waste
collected and segregated gets recycled back into materials for further processing into consumer
products, while the balance is left unutilized. Regulations and legislations are being enforced in
two States of India viz. Haryana and Himachal pradesh, while a National Plastic Waste
Management Council Task Force has been set up by the Government of India, Ministry of
Environment of Forests, with the association of Department of Petroleum and Chemicals,
Ministry of Urban Affairs, Municipal Corporation of Delhi and various groups/associations of
plastic manufacturers. Scope is there for the recycling/management of plastic waste, as an
`organised activity’ in India.
Introduction
Municipal solid waste in India contain 1-4 per cent by weight of plastic waste. India’s rate
of recycling of plastic waste is the highest (60%) in the world as compared to other countries
(China 10%, Europe 7%, Japan 12%, South Africa 16%, USA 10%). As a source of hazard to
environment, plastic account for 16% of chlorine in the environment and have 54 carcinogens,
polythene bags for disposal if burnt irresponsibly releases highly toxic gases like phosgene,
carbon monoxide, chlorine, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, besides deadly dioxin.
Polymers are gradually replacing natural materials like metal, timber and fibres and
thereby conserving the natural environment. Polymers are now finding diversified uses through
blends and alloys and giving higher standards of performance and life cycles to various
products.
CONCLUSION:
Plastic Waste Management has assumed great significance in view of the urbanisation
activities. Plastic waste generated by the polymer manufacturers at the production, extrusion,
quality control & lab. Testing etc., stages, as well as, by the consumers require urgent disposal
and recycling to avoid health hazards. Various strategies are being devised to mitigate the
impact of plastic waste in India.