Page 31 - Plastics News March 2025
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ENVIRONMENT NEWS
egies, ensuring a structured approach to reduc- frastructure, and support sustainable business
ing plastic pollution and promoting responsible models. By joining this global partnership, the
consumption and production. Philippines is taking a significant step toward re-
shaping its environmental future and fostering a
As the country grapples with rising waste con- more sustainable economy.
cerns, the NPAP is expected to drive policy
reforms, encourage investment in recycling in- Source: MRW
Kerala High Court Bans Plastic Bottles at Weddings,
Calls for Stricter Waste Management
implemented practically?” the court questioned,
urging authorities to devise a clear enforcement
strategy. In response, the Kerala government in-
formed the court that it is actively considering a
plastic ban in hilly areas to protect fragile eco-
systems. Additionally, authorities proposed that
event organizers hosting gatherings of more
than 100 people should require a special license
for using plastic materials.
n a significant step towards environmental Highlighting another environmental concern,
conservation, the Kerala High Court has barred the court criticized the Indian Railways for fail-
Ithe use of plastic water bottles at weddings ing to keep railway tracks clean. The justices
and official events in the state, citing their harm- noted that garbage, including plastic waste, is
ful impact on the environment. The directive is frequently dumped along the tracks, posing not
part of broader efforts to tackle plastic waste only an environmental hazard but also a viola-
and promote sustainable alternatives. tion of public health and sanitation laws. “The
Railways must fulfill its obligation to the public
During a hearing on the Solid Waste Manage- and the legal system,” the court stated, directing
ment Rules, 2016, the court expressed concern railway authorities to take immediate action and
over the unchecked use of non-reusable plas- ensure the removal of waste from tracks.
tics, emphasizing the need for strict regula-
tory measures. The judges specifically pointed As part of its growing environmental efforts, the
out that small plastic water bottles, commonly Local Self-Government Department reinforced
distributed at wedding receptions and public the state’s existing ban on half-litre plastic wa-
events, contribute significantly to plastic pollu- ter bottles at weddings and other large gath-
tion. erings. The department further reiterated the
importance of transitioning to eco-friendly alter-
“How can the ban on plastic water bottles be
March 2025 PLASTICS NEWS 31
