Rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles is bringing about a marked increase in the quantum of plastic waste generated and in turn handled by urban centers in India. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) estimates close to 5 million tonnes of plastic waste is being generated annually accounting to around 9% of the total Municipal Solid Waste generated in the country. With collection and treatment figures not encouraging and Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) initiatives still to find effect, municipalities are often found grappling for practical solutions.
As the renewed pitch for phase out of single use plastics amplifies, the task at hand would need to be approached in a structured and practical manner. The ASCI-BWW Online Dialogue gathers experts from the plastic waste management domain in India and addresses some of the most pressing questions from waste management professionals and practitioners.
The interactions provide a comprehensive perspective on:
a. Establishing a definition for Single use plastics in the Indian context
b. Generator/ Generation Mapping/ Estimation Strategy
c. Implementable/affordable solutions as alternatives
d. Cost effective recycling solutions such as Roads/Paver blocks/plastic
to fuel/co-processing
e. Rules/ Policy on EPR
f. Steps to be taken- by cities towards operationalizing EPR
g. Brand engagement strategy at the city level
h. Best practices from cities