Lack of options hit ban enforcement

Bhubaneswar: With inadequate alternatives to single use plastic (SUP) available, it seems to be a Sisyphean task for the authorities to enforce complete ban on SUP which are ubiquitous. Experts said the availability of alternatives and the will to comply and enforcement are necessary for making the plastic ban a success.
“If people could survive without single use plastic products 20 years back, then why can’t they now? It is a matter of mindset and will power to bring necessary changes in their behaviour,” said Jay Krushna Panigrahi, an environmentalist.
“In the last few years, SUP comprised 50% of total plastic products on earth and if the ban became a reality, then 50% of the problems will be solved. It is not only plastic but also micro-plastic that have filled soil, air, water and food. It has been affecting our lives and environment in a big way,” he added.
Kartik Pradhan, a grocer at Unit-IV, said paper or cloth bags will add to the cost of products and customers should be asked to bring their own bags to the market. “If we start using paper bags then we need them in large quantity and of good quality too. If customers are ready to pay extra bucks, then we are ready for it,” said Pradhan.
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) authorities said they are making arrangements for various alternatives to SUP like cloth and paper bags, leaf plates, clay glass and cups and paper straws with the support of self-help groups. “We will provide a cushion period to people to change their behaviour and adopt environment-friendly habits,” said BMC mayor Sulochana Das.