The Delhi government in India imposing a ban on the use of plastic packageing, eco-friendly options like jute and paper are back in demand. The move, as expected, is hailed by many, as most of us are aware of the toxic nature of plastic, its non degradable properties and the harmful effects it has on the environment and in turn on our health.
But along with those who welcomed the move, there are few like plastic manufacturers, shopkeepers and consumers who are against the decision taken by the government. The reasons are aplenty – some say the timing is wrong and the consumer should be informed well in advance, others say they are losing customers and some others say it is just not right to ban use of plastic completely.
The move, at present, is certainly causing some problems to the consumer, shopkeepers and plastic manufacturers but if we look at the wider picture – this is all in our interest, and for our well being. The ban will help us in developing a better environment, a greener atmosphere and a healthy India.
Usually, such decisions are criticized. We still remember the days when the capital government had banned diesel and petrol as fuel for public transport vehicles (transport buses, auto rickshaws) and ordered the use of CNG as fuel in all such vehicles. The decision came under huge fire from one and all. We ourselves used to criticize the government at that time for taking such a decision.
We used to witness snaky queues of vehicles at CNG stations (there we very less number of CNG stations at that time). But with passing time, and the government not giving in to public pressure, today, we have reduced the level of pollution emitted from diesel and petrol public transport vehicles 6-7 years ago.
Back to plastic banning, the shopkeepers in the capital are restoring to different measures to comply the ban. Some have started keeping jute and paper. Some are giving them on rent. Some plastic manufacturers have started making jute and paper.
Cost-wise, jute and cloth are in the higher range, but if we look at the durability and eco-friendliness of these score a lot over plastic.
In India, there are a several small and medium enterprises indulging in manufacturing of different products including jute, some smaller ones are manually making, the bigger ones are taking the help of technology and machinery.
One thing, I would like to talk about here is Internet. Internet technology that has touched our lives, has also found users in these small and medium enterprises. The manufacturers and suppliers are now using the services available on the internet for making jute products, for buying raw material and then selling them through the internet.
You must be wondering, why I am telling you about internet technology and Indian SMEs? The reason is that if you are a shopkeeper or a consumer or a simple businessman based anywhere in India or outside and looking for jute manufacturers, then you can hooked on to the internet for the same.
So, all those who are aghast at the decision of the government, remember, every cloud has a silver lining. The banning on the use of plastic will help us in developing a greener environment and a healthier India.
Go and buy yourself a jute, cloth or a paper bag and say NO to plastic!