Karnataka govt set to allow use of plant-based carry bags

BENGALURU: Putting an end to confusion over the use of biodegradable and compostable bags, the state govt has decided to allow the sale and use of plant-based compostable carry bags that biodegrade within 180 days.
Reviewing the implementation of the ban order on single-use plastic across Karnataka, forest minister Eshwar Khandre on Friday directed officials to allow the manufacture and sale of such plant-based compostable and biodegradable bags.
The state govt, in 2016, had banned single-use plastic items, including carry bags that are biodegradable in nature. This led to a lot of confusion among people as markets were flooded with biodegradable and compostable carry bags. Eventually, the govt reiterated that all forms of plastic carry bags were included under the ban.
However, when the Government of India (GoI) ordered a ban on single-use plastic items in 2022, its notification permitted the manufacture and sale of plant-based compostable and biodegradable bags that degenerate within 180 days. With both orders leading to confusion over the use of such carry bags, the state govt has decided to comply with the 2022 ban order of the Centre.
Khandre has directed officials of Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to submit a proposal to withdraw the 2016 notification and replace it with the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules-2022 enacted by the central govt.
Corn starch variety
Referring to an innovation by the Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL) at Mysuru under the DRDO and other private firms, KSPCB officials briefed the minister, “There is an urgent need for a bio-alternative product to replace single-use plastic items. Single-use plastic can only be eradicated with the introduction of alternatives. DFRL scientists have come up with biodegradable carry bags made of corn starch. These carry bags shall be used within six months and they’ll degenerate on their own regardless of usage.”
In response, Khandre said, “If such biodegradable carry bags are proven to not harm the environment and to degenerate within 180 days, such products shall be permitted for use.”
The minister also said such alternatives should be affordable to the public and only then will citizens give up single-use plastic. He also instructed officials to showcase such plant-based biodegradable and compostable bags during the Environment Day event scheduled to be held at Kanteerava indoor stadium on July 3.