India’s Plastic Pollution Crisis
India is now the biggest plastic polluter globally, emitting 9.3 million tonnes per year, about 20% of global plastic emissions.
Much of this waste escapes into the environment due to poor control systems, including open burning and dumping.
The actual plastic waste generation is likely underestimated, especially from rural areas and informal sectors.
Problems with Data and Waste Infrastructure
Official data often ignores rural waste, informal recycling, and open burning.
There is no transparent method used by local or state bodies to calculate waste figures.
The Himalayan region suffers from severe plastic pollution, worsened by a lack of reliable data and treatment capacity.
Legal and Government Responsibility
The Supreme Court emphasized that environmental protection is a constitutional duty.
The Court used a "continuing mandamus" in a tannery pollution case to ensure long-term compliance and accountability.
It stressed the “polluter pays” principle, requiring those responsible for pollution to restore the environment and compensate victims.
Urgent Reforms Needed
India must collect accurate, transparent data on waste generation and management.
Local bodies (urban and rural) need to be linked to material recovery facilities, EPR kiosks, and sanitary landfills.
Tech solutions and geotagging can help track infrastructure and enforce better waste systems.
Continuing judicial oversight may be necessary to ensure proper implementation and justice.
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