In a significant move to reduce plastic usage, the Karnataka Government has banned use of 40 micron and below grade plastic across the State. The Cabinet, which met on Tuesday, decided to put a ban on production, transport and sale of 40 micron plastic in the State.
“The State has decided to ban use of plastic. Plastic of 40 micron and below doesn’t get degraded, so it was decided to ban it,” law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister TB Jayachandra told reporters. He said that in agriculture 40 micron plastic was used for mulching purpose and discarded as it is which has led to adverse effects, also leading to health issues.
He said decision would in no way affect the industry as they will have to just change the dye. “We are not banning its export, but domestic usage will be banned,” Jayachandra said, adding the Cabinet has also decided to convene the State legislature from November 16 to 27 in Bengaluru. He expressed doubts about holding the Winter Session in December due to legislative Council elections.
The IT city Bengaluru is in news for the problem of garbage disposal which has become a major problem. The unmanageable waste disposal especially disposal of plastic waste was a major problem. The decision of the Cabinet is a welcome change and expected to reduce plastic usage in Bengaluru.