Plastic goods manufacturers and users got together to clarify their doubts regarding the banned single-use plastic with enforcement authorities at a meeting organised by the Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry here on Monday.
The meeting saw a wide exchange of views and some confusion regarding enforcement of the ban. The chamber’s senior president, S. Rethinavelu, and the president, N. Jegatheesan, welcomed the State government’s decision to ban single-use plastic goods. Mr. Rethinavelu, however, said the the government must clarify the difference between ‘packing bags’ and ‘carry bags.’ “The Corporation must provide receipts for items seized so that we can clarify in case of a problem. On many instances, dealers complained that the Corporation seized even items that were not banned,” he said.
Collector S. Natarajan and Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board’s District Environmental Engineer K. Rammohan were present at the meeting. The Collector said the ban would help in rejuvenating the waterbodies. “Some people may be unintentionally affected by the ban, but I am confident that we can pave the way for a cleaner environment,” he said.
Manufacturers and users of polypropylene (PP) said they were unsure about using the product. “The papad industry requires the usage of PP at all points because we wrap the product using it. Our exports have been severely affected but PP has been considered as food grade plastic in many places,” said G. Thirumurugan, an entrepreneur.
The participants raised objections against the Collector for leaving the discussion without clarifying details about enforcement of the ban.
Mr. Rammohan acknowledged there were some doubts with regard to the ban and entrepreneurs could clear their doubts with the enforcement authorities.