Dimapur, November 6 (MExN): The Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) conducted an awareness programme at Thahekhu village as part of the Single-Use Plastic-Free Campaign on November 5. The programme was attended by the village council members and community of the business establishment.
Akangmeren Imchen, Scientist B, NPCB, presented about the ill effects of plastics and how it impacts the environment. He stressed on the improper management of various waste, especially plastic waste which are carelessly dumped into the steams, nullahs and river bodies. He said that waste accumulation in the Dhansiri River which is one of the major rivers of Nagaland is increasing, and causing harm to the aquatic organisms, plants, the quality of water as well as the humans in general, and urged the participants to refrain from using banned plastic items and be aware of their actions in conserving the environment.
Limitsa S Sangtam, Scientist B, NPCB, presented on the Single Use Plastic (SUP) items that are banned and also demonstrated the alternative products that are to be used and which are readily available in the market. Following the directions and notifications from the Government of India and the Government of Nagaland, the banned of SUP on various items that includes plastic sticks (earbuds, balloons), plastic straws, ice cream plastic sticks, plastic cups, plastic cutlery, plastic wraps, polystyrene (thermocol), for decoration, plastic carry bags (>75 microns), non-woven plastic bags<60 GSM (gram per sq meter) and food packaging items.
He also added about the responsibilities of the village council in the management of waste to ensure segregation, segregation, collection, storage, transportation, plastic waste and channelization of recyclable plastic waste fraction to recyclers having valid registration; ensuring that no damage is caused to the environment during this process and the adhere to the Solid Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2022. The responsibilities of the waste generators, retailers and street vendors were also presented.
The Board also handed over a certificate of participation on Single Use Plastic Free Campaign to the village council members. Resource materials like jute bags and pamphlets on alternative use to banned SUP items in Nagamese and Sumi language were distributed. The programme concluded with the attendees pledging to contribute towards elimination of SUP within the jurisdiction of the village.
