The Odisha government has issued yet another directive to curb the use of single-use plastics, but its effectiveness remains questionable as enforcement continues to falter.
Despite multiple guidelines and raids across urban areas, the use of single-use plastics, such as polythene bags and disposable cutlery, has not significantly declined.
The latest order from the Forest and Environment Department, led by Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Satyabrata Sahu, mandates a complete ban on single-use plastics in government offices, meetings, and workshops.
The directive prohibits plastic-lined flower bouquets, gift items, food packets, plates, and other disposables in government settings. Instead, eco-friendly alternatives like steel, copper, bamboo containers, paper bags, jute bags, or biodegradable bags are to be used.
ACS Sahu has emphasised immediate compliance, referencing a 2019 state government order issued on Gandhi Jayanti and a 2022 Government of India directive. However, despite these efforts and periodic raids, the use of single-use plastics remains rampant, with enforcement often waning after initial crackdowns, leading to a “business as usual” scenario.
The new guidelines also ban polythene bags in government offices, replacing them with biodegradable or cloth-based alternatives. Food and beverages, including tea, must now be served in metal containers rather than plastic or thermocol. Additionally, plastic-based gift items and flower bouquets are prohibited in government offices, with instructions issued to all subordinate officials to ensure compliance.
Environmentalists have welcomed the move but stress the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness to make the ban effective.
The persistent use of single-use plastics highlights the gap between policy and practice, raising questions about the state’s commitment to sustainable practices.
