Single-use plastic should be totally banned: Khandre

Rithu Dravid | NT

On the occasion of “World Environment Day- 2023”, News Trail interviewed Eshwar Khandre, Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Government of Karnataka. His vision on World Environment Day 2023- theme #BEAT PLASTIC POLLUTION focuses on collective responsibility by citizens of the country in implementing it.

He says, “By working together we can reduce the amount of plastic waste in our environment and create a more sustainable future.” He highlights the need to protect and save our Earth which can make a difference to future generations. Here are excerpts from the interview.

What are the long and short-term plans for the state’s forest, ecology and environment during your tenure as minister?

There is pollution everywhere- air, water, food, sound, plastic etc. which is affecting all of us. There is a lot of lake devastation especially in metropolitan cities. We have taken strict action on this and have an action plan to cleanse the system. If pollution laws are being violated, we will take strict action, issue notices and will not hesitate to book cases.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is providing assistance relating to environment protection, conservation of forests and natural resources. The NGT has also imposed fines on polluted industries, apartments etc. We need to educate people about environmental policies and laws by throwing more light on the negative impacts of pollution that will cause devastation to our environment thereby impacting our future generations.

Implementing environmental laws effectively will benefit the society by and large rather than harming them. Supporting environmentallyfriendly laws can make a difference in protecting the planet.

What are the effective ways to beat plastic pollution?

Single use plastic should be totally banned as it is dangerous to mankind. Complete recycling of other plastic material should be undertaken. This can reduce waste and conserve resources which is a great way to start protecting our planet.

We have to address environmental issues affecting life on a war footing. Pollutants should not become a health hazard to people. E-waste has to be recycled, as solid waste stream is becoming more urgent. The e-waste is dangerous as it comprises of toxic substances causing soil, air and waterway contamination. Fly ash should be used in the construction of road ways, building materials etc.

How can the government, and other supporting organistaions work together to tackle plastic pollution?

There are a good number of NGOs and government organisations working on this. Education programs can be implemented in schools and communities to promote sustainable behaviors and reduce plastic waste. Governments and organisations can implement policies on plastic bans or fines, regulations on single -use plastic pollution.

However, more action is needed at all levels to address this issue. We are working hand in hand with the state pollution board and forest officials to take opinions and advice and act accordingly. I have given a free hand to all such authorities without any pressure from the government. Factories that are emitting pollutants and other activities causing pollution to the environment will be dealt with a heavy hand and penalised.

Any plans or initiatives in mind to promote biodiversity conservation in the state?

We have to protect biodiversity which is very important. We have decided to plant lakhs of saplings across Karnataka to increase the forest cover specially Kalyan Karnataka to start with. We will take it up as a pilot project and work on it immediately.

What is you plan to address lake pollution in the state?

Many lakes have been encroached upon and we can see all kinds of pollutants in the lakechemicals, e- waste, plastic making them poisonous lakes. We need support of local civic bodies -BBMP, BDA, involve NGO’s, experts in the field which will be a long-term plan.

Gradually we have to enforce laws and the government has to address issues seriously. All departments have to join hands and see to it that lakes are free of pollution. As Bengaluru city is seeing exponential growth, sewerage treatment methods are not up to the mark and becoming a threat to health. This also needs immediate attention.

How do you plan to address wildlife- human conflicts in the state?

On an average 30 to 40 people are dying every year due to wildlife- human conflict. Public life is very precious and it is the duty of the government to protect it. The previous government had proposed around 641 kilometer of railway barricading around forest area, out of which 311 was completed.

Because of lack of funds, it wa