Daily Current Affairs : 7-September-2023
Plastic pollution has become an increasingly pressing global issue, prompting the formation of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) tasked with developing a binding international instrument to address this problem. The committee recently released a “zero draft,” outlining its objectives and strategies. In this essay, we will delve into the key aspects of this draft, the dangers posed by plastic pollution, and India’s efforts to tackle this crisis.
Understanding the Zero Draft
The zero draft of the international instrument on plastic pollution is divided into four parts:
Part I: Objectives and Placeholders
- Defines the objectives of the instrument.
- Leaves placeholders for additional elements that members may suggest.
Part II: Addressing Plastic Pollution
- Focuses on the life cycle of plastics and plastic products.
- Aims to promote sustainable production and consumption through product design and responsible waste management.
- Emphasizes resource efficiency and circular economy approaches.
Part III & IV: Implementation Measures
- Outlines various options for collectively implementing the instrument.
Reflecting UNEA’s Objectives
The draft aligns with the United Nations Environment Assembly’s (UNEA) goals and mandate, emphasizing the importance of tackling plastic pollution on a global scale.
Plastic and Pollution: A Global Concern
Understanding Plastic
- Plastic materials are versatile and can be molded to fit various needs.
- Most plastics are derived from fossil fuels, but some are now made from renewable materials.
Data on Plastic Pollution
- Over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually, with half designed for single use.
- Less than 10% of plastic is recycled, leading to 19-23 million tonnes entering our waterways annually.
- Worldwide, a million plastic bottles are bought every minute, and five trillion plastic bags are used yearly.
Hazards of Plastic Waste
- Environmental pollution and climate change: Plastic waste contributes to global warming when incinerated, releasing toxic compounds.
- Soil, water, and ocean pollution: Toxic chemicals from plastics seep into groundwater, causing soil and water pollution.
- Slow decomposition: Plastics break down slowly, persisting in ecosystems.
- Health risks: Microplastics contain toxins, posing health hazards.
- Impact on tourism: Plastic pollution harms tourist destinations and economies.
India’s Efforts in Tackling Plastic Waste
Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016
- Banned thin plastic bags and restricted recycled plastics for food packaging.
- Introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2022
- Enhanced EPR guidelines and prohibited certain single-use plastic items.
- Banned carry bags made of thin plastic.
Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban 2.0
- Emphasizes source segregation and sorting of waste.
- Encourages reuse of plastic waste in cement plants and road construction.
- Establishment of Plastic Parks for recycling and processing.
Important Points:
Zero Draft for International Instrument:
- The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) released a zero draft for a binding international instrument on plastic pollution.
- It is divided into four parts, outlining objectives and implementation strategies.
UNEA’s Objectives:
- The draft aligns with the United Nations Environment Assembly’s (UNEA) goals and mandate to combat plastic pollution globally.
Understanding Plastic Pollution:
- Plastic is versatile and can be molded to fit various needs.
- Most plastics are derived from fossil fuels, with some made from renewable materials.
- Over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually, with half designed for single use.
- Less than 10% of plastic is recycled, leading to significant pollution.
Hazards of Plastic Waste:
- Plastic waste contributes to environmental pollution, climate change, and health risks.
- Soil and water pollution occur as toxic chemicals from plastics seep into groundwater.
- Plastics decompose slowly, persisting in ecosystems.
- Microplastics contain toxins, posing health hazards.
- Plastic pollution affects tourism and economies.
India’s Efforts in Tackling Plastic Waste:
- India has introduced stringent rules and regulations to manage plastic waste effectively.
- Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2022, focus on banning certain plastics and promoting Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
- Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban 2.0 emphasizes source segregation, reuse of plastic waste, and the establishment of Plastic Parks for recycling.
Why In News
The Intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC) has taken a significant step forward in combating plastic pollution by releasing a comprehensive zero draft of an international legally binding instrument. This pivotal document lays the foundation for global collaboration in addressing this pressing environmental issue, bringing us closer to a sustainable and plastic-free future.
MCQs about Combating Plastic Pollution Globally
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How does plastic waste impact the environment and human health?
A. It has no negative impact.
B. It contributes to environmental pollution, soil and water contamination, and poses health risks.
C. It only affects marine ecosystems.
D. It helps improve air quality.
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What key approach does India’s Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban 2.0 emphasize in managing plastic waste?
A. Exporting plastic waste to other countries
B. Promoting unregulated plastic production
C. Source segregation and sorting of waste
D. Encouraging the use of single-use plastics
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What is the primary objective of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) in developing a zero draft for an international instrument on plastic pollution?
A. To ban all plastic production
B. To promote sustainable plastic production and consumption
C. To encourage the use of single-use plastics
D. To increase plastic waste in the environment
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How does plastic pollution contribute to climate change?
A. By reducing carbon emissions
B. By promoting recycling
C. By releasing toxic compounds when incinerated
D. By enhancing air quality
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