CPCB reiterates SUP ban

5 June is World Environment Day, and the theme for 2025 is Beat Plastic Pollution. In the run-up to World Environment Day, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on 1 June took to X (formerly Twitter) to remind the citizens of India of the ongoing ban on single-use plastic (SUP) carry bags under 120 microns, a regulation that has been in effect since 31 December 2022.

In the direction to phase out #SingleUsePlastics, a complete ban on the usage of #PlasticCarryBags with less than a thickness of 120 microns with effect from 31st December 2022.#SayNoToSUP #MissionLiFE #EndPlasticPollution #BeatPlasticPollution @byadavbjp @KVSinghMPGonda pic.twitter.com/cbaBnOAg1W

— Central Pollution Control Board (@CPCB_OFFICIAL) June 1, 2025

The CPCB's post underscored the severe environmental damage caused by plastic, urging a collective, "Say no to it today and take a step towards a plastic-free future." The reminder highlights the government's continued commitment to tackling plastic pollution, a critical issue impacting land, water, and air quality across the nation.

The CPCB issued a crucial public health and environmental advisory, stating, "Burning plastic is harmful to the environment and health. Dispose of it properly and help prevent air pollution." This emphasises the importance of responsible disposal practices to mitigate adverse effects on air quality. Furthermore, the CPCB advocated for sustainable alternatives, noting, "Using eco-friendly alternatives instead of single-use plastic can make a big difference. It's a simple step that goes a long way in protecting our environment." The CPCB's timely reminder serves as a call to action for individuals and industries alike to prioritise sustainable practices and contribute to a healthier, plastic-free future.

India ranks fifth globally in plastic waste generation, with a staggering 181% increase in plastic consumption in the last five years. Despite this rapid growth, 60% of the plastic waste generated in the country is recycled. Of this, 94.2% is processed through mechanical recycling, 0.8% through chemical recycling, and 5% is managed via energy recovery and alternate uses. In 2023, India generated 18 million tonnes of plastic waste, and this figure is projected to rise to 34 million tonnes by 2031. The majority of this waste — 70% — comes from packaging, followed by 15% from household and consumer use, 10% from industrial sources, and 5% from other categories.

Among the specific contributors to plastic waste, chips and confectionery bags account for the largest share at 21%. This is followed by bottles, caps, and lids at 13%, PET bottles at 11%, retail bags at 8%, garbage bags at 7.5%, straws at 7%, packaging at 6.7%, and food bags at 5.2%. These numbers highlight the scale and urgency of the plastic waste crisis in India and the need for robust waste management interventions.

World Environment Day is celebrated every year on 5 June. The 2025 edition focuses on combating plastic pollution. Recent research has suggested that microplastics are now in almost everything that exists on the Earth.