Ram Vilas Paswan bans single-use plastic in his offices

NEW DELHI: Food, public distribution and consumer affairs minister Ram Vilas Paswan has announced a compete ban on the use of single-use plastic in his ministries and offices attached with the ministries from September 15.

Paswan said the government is exploring an alternative to replace single-use plastic which is set to be banned.

“A meeting has been scheduled with industry representative, BIS officials and other stakeholders to explore alternatives to single-use plastic. We are serious about bringing in practical solution,” he said.

Single-use plastics (SUPs) are used only once before they are thrown away or recycled. These include plastic bags, cups, plates, aerated drinks' bottles, straws, stirrers, take-away food containers, processed food packers and wrappers. Of these, foamed products such as disposable cutlery, plates and glasses are considered the most dangerous to the environment.