30/05/2026
Public Awareness and Sensitisation Programme on Ban of Single-Use Plastics and Plastic Waste Management Held at Soreng
Soreng, May 30 (IPR): A Public Awareness and Sensitisation Programme on the Ban of Single-Use Plastics (SUP) and training on the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, subsequent amendments, and the online reporting mechanism was organised at the Rurban Complex, Soreng, with the objective of enhancing public awareness and strengthening the implementation of plastic waste management measures.
Addressing the gathering, ADC (Development), Soreng, Mr Ongdi Sherpa, underscored the importance of collective efforts in tackling the growing challenge of plastic pollution. He emphasised that effective waste management begins with proper segregation at the source and highlighted the need for active participation from government agencies, urban local bodies, market associations, and the general public. He further elaborated on the objectives of the programme, which included creating awareness about the ban on single-use plastics, promoting responsible waste disposal practices, and building capacity among stakeholders for the effective implementation of Plastic Waste Management Rules.
During the technical session, Junior Engineer, State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), Mr Pravash Chettri, delivered a detailed presentation on the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules and the Plastic Waste Management framework. He explained the provisions relating to the prohibition of identified single-use plastic items and elaborated on the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), under which producers, importers, and brand owners are required to ensure environmentally sound management of plastic waste generated from their products. He also informed the participants about compliance requirements and the role of various stakeholders in achieving sustainable waste management practices.
IMIS Expert Mr Purna Bahadur Rai presented an introductory session on plastic and plastic waste management. He explained the different categories of plastics, their widespread use in daily life, and the environmental concerns arising from improper disposal. He highlighted the long-term impacts of plastic pollution on ecosystems, water bodies, wildlife, and human health, while stressing the importance of reducing plastic consumption, promoting recycling, and adopting environmentally responsible practices.
Another technical presentation was delivered by IMIS Expert Mr Rakesh Bista on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for DUP Characterisation Assessment 2026. He explained the methodology adopted for the assessment process, including waste sampling, segregation, classification, and data recording procedures. The presentation focused on the importance of accurate waste characterisation in generating reliable data for planning and implementing effective waste management interventions.
Bazar Officer Ms Marigold Lucksom briefed the participants on issues related to e-waste management and single-use plastics. She highlighted the need for proper collection, segregation, and disposal of electronic waste to prevent environmental contamination. She also emphasised the importance of public awareness and compliance with existing regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste generation and promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
The programme concluded with a practical demonstration on SUP Characterisation, providing participants with hands-on training in the identification, classification, and assessment of single-use plastic waste. The field-oriented exercise familiarised participants with segregation techniques, waste assessment procedures, and data collection methods essential for effective monitoring and management of plastic waste.
The participants actively engaged in the demonstration session and gained practical knowledge on waste characterisation processes. The programme also helped enhance their understanding of the environmental impacts of single-use plastics and reinforced the importance of systematic monitoring, segregation, and disposal mechanisms in achieving sustainable waste management and environmental protection.
The programme was attended by Panchayat Presidents, Zilla Panchayat Members, DPO (Zilla) Mr Kumar S***a, BDOs, Deputy Director Mr Kul Bahadur S***a, AD (PRIs),Block Coordinators, PDAs (Swachagrahis), representatives of the Nagar Panchayats of Soreng and Bazar, the Bazar Officer, trainees, and staff members.
