NEWS – A recent statistics of Plastic Waste Management in Karnataka released

HIGHLIGHTS

• Recycling Statistics:
  • Only 57% of plastic waste generated in Karnataka is recycled.
  • 44 tonnes of plastic waste is generated daily, with 733.47 tonnes (74.2%) collected and 324.29 tonnes processed annually.
• Policy and Enforcement:
  • Karnataka implemented Plastic Waste Management Rules in March 2016, banning carry bags.
  • The state faces challenges with illegal manufacturing units and import of banned materials.
  • Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has booked 54,000 cases in its efforts.
• Recycling Capacity:
  • Karnataka has 143 recycling units capable of recycling 2.10 lakh tonnes annually (57.27% of total waste).
  • Non-recyclable plastic is sent to cement factories as residue-derived fuel (RDF).
• Environmental Impact:
  • In 2022-23, 31,000 tonnes of plastic were sent as RDF, posing hazards due to toxic chemical additives from burning.
• Enforcement Actions:
  • KSPCB has booked 53,698 cases for violations, including penalties and closure orders.
  • Despite seizures and penalties, banned plastic remains a challenge.
• Inter-State Challenges:
  • Banned plastic is sometimes sourced from neighboring states, complicating enforcement efforts.
• Future Strategies:
  • Continuous efforts are needed to address single-use plastic challenges and improve recycling rates.
  • Collaboration with neighboring states and stringent enforcement measures are essential.