With World Earth Day 2024 shining a light on “Planet vs. Plastics,” India, a country with over 1.4 billion people, is right in the middle of this fight. We generate around 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste each year and only recycle 30% of it, as per a recent report.
All that plastic packaging wrapped around everything we buy, from food to phones, the plastic bottles we use –ends up in overflowing landfills, sewers, and our rivers, becoming a big danger to stray and wild animals. But how is India rising to fight this plastic attack as we celebrate Earth Day 2024?
Plastic Waste Management in India
The Indian government again introduced a National Circular Economy Roadmap in December 2023 to improve plastic waste management and promote recycling. By 2035, the roadmap aims to reduce 30% less plastic in landfills, boost recycling rates to 67%, and make sure over 80% of plastic waste is tracked and handled responsibly.
India’s Fight Against Climate Change
India is a global leader in wind energy production too. It has the advantage of a large coastline and several mountainous regions that have strong winds. As of March 31, 2024, the total installed wind power capacity in India was 45.887 gigawatts (GW), making it the fourth largest in the world.
World Earth Day 2024: How can the Public contribute?
Celebrating Earth Day on April 22 each year is not enough to protect our home, our planet- Earth. The real change starts with us, the everyday citizens. By including the following habits in our lifestyle, we can play a part too in India’s fight against climate change.
- Conserve Energy: Every little bit counts! Switch off lights and electronics when not in use. Unplug chargers – they still suck up energy even when your phone is done!
- Try to carpool or use public transport if you can, instead of using your personal vehicle every time.
- Take shorter showers – every minute saved helps conserve water, which is also crucial for combating climate change.
- Be sustainable and invest in reusable cloth or jute bags for shopping and say no to plastic bags at stores. Every bag you refuse makes a difference.
- Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. Plant a tree in your backyard, or support organizations that promote tree planting.
- Look for products with minimal packaging, or packaging made from recycled materials.
Conclusion
The fight for a greener India isn’t of government alone– we all have a role to play. By making small changes in our daily lives, holding our leaders accountable, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, we can be the generation that turns the tide. Let’s bring a future where India develops not at the expense of the environment, but in harmony with it.