Bio-transformation technology developed for plastic waste management
Recently bio-transformation technology has been developed for plastic waste management.
- A United Kingdom startup claims to have developed bio-transformation technology. This technology can change the state of plastic to make it biodegradable.
- This technology ensures bio-degradability of plastic waste. In this sequence, it also does not allow micro-plastics to be generated in the form of waste.
- Plastics made using this technology are just like conventional plastics. However, these self-destruct after a period of use and get bio-converted into bio-available wax.
- Microorganisms break down this wax into water, CO2 and biomass.
- Bio-available is the rate at which a substance is absorbed and utilized by the body.
- The food packaging and health care industries are two major sectors that can use this technology to reduce waste.
Why are biodegradable solutions needed?
- India generates 3.5 billion kg of plastic waste annually. Per capita plastic waste generation has doubled in the period 2017-2022.
- Packaging waste accounts for one-third of plastic waste.
- According to the ‘Plastics: The Potential and Possibilities’ report, 2023, India recycles only 30 per cent of its plastic waste.
Initiatives taken to tackle plastic waste in India
- Single-use plastic has been banned. Also, the National Dashboard has been launched for the elimination of single-use plastic.
- Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 have been notified.
- The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) principle has been implemented for plastic packaging.
- Additionally, in an effort to reduce plastic waste, the Uttarakhand government is implementing a QR code-based project to make the Char Dham route free of plastic bottles and packets waste.
- Under this, visitors will have to scan a QR code on each plastic bottle and multi-layer plastic bag and deposit an amount over and above the maximum retail price (MRP).
- This amount will be returned to them on returning these bottles and bags (after use).
Source – The Hindu
