Election Commission, NGT, MoEFCC say no to plastics in 2019 poll campaigning

Election Commission has asked all political parties and contesting candidates to desist from using environmentally hazardous material like plastics in banners, hoardings, cut-outs and other poll-related articles during upcoming general elections.

This announcement indicate that steps are finally being taken to reduce the use of non-biodegradable materials in the world’s biggest electoral exercise. India has already committed to do away with the use of single-use plastics by 2022.

On March 4, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed the Election Commission to take a decision on banning non-degradable materials, particularly single-use plastics in election campaigns. It even set a week-time to decide. It suggested that the Central Pollution Control Board be the nodal body for monitoring the use of such material.

Before this, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) had also directed all states and Union Territories not to use single-use plastic for poll preparations. This direction — in a letter written by MoEFCC Secretary CK Mishra to all secretaries and state election commissioners — demanded banning of all types plastic carry bags, thermocol disposable cutlery and artificial flags and banners.

Though the election commission has long been maintaining its stand on promoting use of environment friendly campaign materials elections, its latest instructions took note of India’s commitment and availability of alternate options which have lesser environmental impact.

While the government of India is yet to take a call on banning biodegradable materials as directed by the NGT, on March 11 the Kerala High Court banned the use of flex and other non-biodegradable materials for campaigning throughout the state.

Courtesy: Down to Earth, TOI