Satyendra Kumar, director, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, recently addressed a distinguished audience of industry experts at the Eliteplus Conference held in Mumbai. In his speech, Kumar talked about the critical role of the packaging sector in addressing the growing issue of plastic pollution. The conference, which brought together film and packaging manufacturers, brands, and recycling think tanks, focused on sustainability in the plastics industry – a sector that Kumar emphasized plays a pivotal role in promoting development across the economy.
Kumar began his address by acknowledging the importance of plastics in advancing various sectors, particularly in enhancing food security, health and overall well-being. “Plastics have significantly impacted global development, especially in food and health sectors,” he said. However, Kumar also pointed out the flip side of this progress – the environmental degradation caused by plastic waste.
“There has been a growing concern about plastic pollution and its adverse effects on human health and the environment,” he said, calling for collaborative efforts from governments, private sectors, and citizens worldwide to find sustainable solutions.
In his speech, Kumar highlighted India’s efforts in combating plastic pollution. He shared that in 2018, the country aligned with the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) initiative to phase out single-use plastics. “By 2022, significant steps have been taken globally towards this goal,” he said, noting that 193 countries are currently committed to international efforts aimed at reducing plastic use.
He further mentioned that India has put in place comprehensive regulations since February 2022 to tackle plastic packaging waste through extended producer responsibility (EPR). “These regulations are now being implemented and will evolve based on our experiences to make them more effective,” Kumar explained, emphasizing the role of the industry in fostering innovation to address the issue of single-use plastics.
Kumar spoke at length about the need for circularity in plastic usage, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, water and food. “Conscious efforts are needed to ensure circularity in plastic usage, ensuring materials are recycled and reused effectively,” he said. He urged manufacturers, especially in the packaging industry, to focus on improving product design to reduce plastic intensity and enhance recyclability.
In his speech, Kumar also highlighted the critical role of innovation and technical collaboration in addressing plastic pollution. “Technical collaboration and innovation are essential for achieving high-end recycling facilities,” he said, stressing the need for improved infrastructure and logistical support to manage plastic waste effectively. He also called for a shift in focus from downstream waste management to upstream interventions, aimed at reducing consumption patterns.
Kumar pointed out that developed countries, which have higher plastic consumption rates, must lead by example. “Developed countries must take the lead in sustainable plastic usage to mitigate environmental impacts and promote circular economy practices globally,” he said.
In his concluding remarks, Kumar reiterated the importance of collective action to tackle the issue of plastic pollution. “Our collective efforts and sincere actions will pave the way for a sustainable future where plastic pollution is effectively managed and minimized,” he said. He emphasized the crucial role the packaging industry must play in this effort, through continued innovation and collaboration, to benefit future generations.
