EC to political parties: Don't use plastic for banners, not good for environment

With campaigning for assembly polls underway in five states, the Election Commission on Wednesday reminded political parties about the bad effects of plastic and asked them to avoid using it for making banners and
posters for electioneering.

The EC also recalled its earlier instructions on the matter issued in 1999, 2003, 2004 and 2006.

"The commission reiterates that all political parties should try to avoid the use of plastic/polythene and similar non-biodegradable material for preparation of posters, banners during election campaign in the interest of environment protection. Your cadres may be advised suitably," the commission told all recognised national and state political parties.

The fresh instructions by the EC come against the backdrop of campaigning underway in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry. First phase of elections have already taken place in West Bengal and Assam.

Sixty major cities in India together churn out over 3,500 tonne of plastic waste everyday.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar had recently told the Lok Sabha that consumption of plastic in the country was 11 million tonne in 2013-14.

"The total quantum of plastic waste generated in the country from 60 major cities is estimated to be 3,501 tonne per day," he had said.

Last month, the government had notified new plastic waste management rules, bringing the country's gram panchayats into the picture and introducing the concept of extended producer responsibility. It also banned plastic carry bags thinner than 50 microns.