As part of the Single Use Plastic (SUP) ban imposed by the Centre from 1 July 2022, the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) conducted an awareness programme as part of the SUP Free Campaign at Kuda Village on 1 November.
The programme was attended by the village council members, Gaon Buras, representatives from various local bodies including women Hoho, SHGs, youths and school students.
Olivi Chophy, Senior Scientist Assistant NPCB presented on the various Single Use Plastics that are banned and at the same time demonstrated the alternative products that are to be used and are available in the market.
Banned plastic items include plastic cutlery, plastic trays, plastic food wrapping cling films, plastic cups & plates, plastic straws, plastic carry bags below 75 microns, plastic or thermocol decorative items, flex and PVC banners less than 100 microns.
Yanathung Kithan, Scientist B NPCB speaking at the programme emphasized on the importance of solid waste management at the individual/household level and through collective efforts of the community as with increase in population and waste generation, the concerned department faces challenges with respect to proper management of municipal solid waste.
Taking into account the rules under the solid waste management rules of 2016 and Plastic waste management rule of 2016, Kithan stated that responsibilities of waste generators to waste collectors and recyclers have been laid down to be complied in order to ensure sustainability of the management activities.
He further state that at the household and individual level waste generators are equally responsible for proper collection, segregation and disposal of wastes in their respective homes and surroundings.
Additionally, Kithan gave insight on the air pollutions status of the city and the activities that the board is involved in with regards to monitoring and regulation of pollution levels in the city of Dimapur and Kohima – the two non-attainment cities in the state.
During the discussion, Kuda village representatives also expressed their concerns about their own struggle with waste disposal and management.
However, the community has initiated their own segregation and recycling of wastes through an innovative mechanism started by two members of the community, with hopes of expansion and larger scale operation through financial and technical support from interested organizations.
The awareness programme concluded with the attendees pledging to contribute towards practicing Reducing, Re-using and Recycling of plastic wastes in their homes and at the community level for a Single Use Plastic Free environment.
