In today’s world, it’s hard to imagine a life without plastic. Plastic products are a part of our daily lives, from the bags we carry to the items we use at home and work. But what happens to all that plastic waste?
Dealing with plastic waste is a global challenge, and one man in Dehradun, Abhinav Singh, decided to take action. He initiated a remarkable project, the “Polythene Kachra Bank,” to combat plastic waste and transform it into useful products.
Plastic pollution is a pressing issue that affects our planet. In India, a staggering 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated each year, with only 30% being recycled. The consumption of plastic in the country has been increasing steadily, reaching 20 million tonnes in 2019-20. Dehradun, a city known for its natural beauty and tourism, generates 131 tonnes of waste daily, which poses a significant challenge.
The Birth of the Polythene Kachra Bank
Abhinav Singh, the CEO of the Dehradun Cantonment Board, launched the Polythene Kachra Bank. This innovative initiative aims to eliminate waste from Dehradun by recycling plastic into valuable products like benches, tree guards, ply boards, and dustbins. By doing so, they’re not only addressing the plastic problem but also creating a cleaner and greener city for future generations.
Collaboration for a Cleaner Tomorrow
To make this project a success, the Polythene Kachra Bank has joined forces with a waste management company called Shayna Eco Unified from Noida. Shayna Eco Unified, established in 2015, is dedicated to reducing plastic dumping and creating affordable materials from recycled plastic. With Dehradun witnessing an increasing amount of waste due to tourism, this collaboration is a step toward a cleaner future.
Involving the Community
The Polythene Kachra Bank encourages community involvement in the mission to tackle plastic waste. Rag pickers, slum dwellers, and local residents are invited to deposit their plastic waste at three collection stations in the city. In return, they are offered Rs 3 for every kilogram of waste. This not only provides an incentive for waste collection but also ensures that the garbage is not carelessly dumped into ditches.
Raising Awareness
To make sure everyone in Dehradun is aware of the project, the Polythene Kachra Bank conducts awareness campaigns through pamphlets and loudspeaker announcements. These efforts help educate the community about the importance of responsible plastic waste disposal and recycling.
Conclusion:
The Polythene Kachra Bank in Dehradun is a shining example of how individuals and communities can come together to combat the global plastic waste problem. Abhinav Singh and his team are not only turning trash into treasure but also paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
We hope that more cities and regions will follow Dehradun’s lead and adopt similar initiatives, contributing to a healthier planet for generations to come. Let’s all do our part in reducing plastic waste and supporting innovative projects like this one.
