NGT directs CPCB to act on plastic waste management

According to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), there is no proper mechanism for plastic waste management in the country and has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to take necessary action in connection with the same.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel said that CPCB has to oversee the compliance in this regard as mere issuance of directions by the CPCB is not adequate. “Even with regard to illegal import, CPCB as a statutory regulator can take up the matter with the authorities concerned,” the tribunal observed. The tribunal directed the CPCB to take further steps in the matter accordingly and file a report before October 16.

Earlier, the CPCB had informed the NGT that the import of plastic waste must be restricted as the hazardous waste generated in the country is to the extent of 26,000 tons a day and the same is not properly managed. The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, as amended in 2018, prohibit open burning of plastic waste and permit its recycling only if it conforms to Indian Standard: IS 14534:1998.

According to a plea filed by Amit Jain, who alleged that cheap waste paper and road sweep waste is imported from the United States, Europe and other countries for burning in brick kilns, which causes land and air pollution. “Large plastic waste yards can be seen near recycled paper mills. Import of cheap waste paper is hazardous and is affecting the environment. The import is to the extent of 9,00,000 tons of waste which generates hazardous plastic,” the plea said.