(a) whether plastic bags are being used for distributing saplings as part of afforestation drive every year in various States and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the Government is considering an eco-friendly substitute to plastics for distributing saplings; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI BABUL SUPRIYO)
(a) Bags made of various material such as jute, coir, plastic bags are used for distribution of saplings as part of afforestation drive. In order to prevent plastic pollution in the country, the Ministry has notified, the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules 2016. As per the provisions of the Rules, plastic carry bag made of virgin or recycled plastic less than fifty microns in thickness has been prohibited. Sachets using plastic materials for storing, packing or selling gutkha, tobacco and pan masala have also been prohibited.
(b)and (c) Government has identified Compostable plastic as one of the alternative. The Rules define norms for compostable plastic. Further, to promote the use of compostable plastic, the provision of minimum thickness of fifty microns has been made inapplicable to carry bags made up of compostable plastic, conforming IS/ISO 17088.Some of the State Governments which have banned the use of plastic bags in their respective States are allowing only compostable plastic bags for plant nurseries,horticulture, agriculture etc.
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