TN to ban manufacture, use of most plastic products from Jan 1

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday announced its decision to ban manufacture and use of several plastic products in the state from January 1, 2019. However, a few plastic materials used for packing milk, curd, oil and medicine have been exempted.

Chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made the announcement in the state legislative assembly on the occasion of the World Environment Day. The chief minister sought the cooperation of people and traders in implementing this ban in the state.

According to Palaniswami, dumping of use and throw plastic products have been a major cause for pollution and contamination of ground water, since these dumped plastic products prevent rain water from percolating deeper into soil and recharge ground water levels. Such dumpings also lead to water stagnation, resulting in spread of malaria and dengue. "Hence, to ensure a better and pollution-free environment for our next generation, the statement hereby bans manufacture and use of such plastic products from January 1, 2019," Palaniswami said.

The announcement was made under Rule 110 of the assembly.