World Environment Day 2022: Punjab, Himachal to ban single-use plastic from July

Punjab and Himachal Pradesh governments on Sunday announced to impose a ban on single-use plastic from July.
During a virtual state-level function to mark World Environment Day 2022, Secretary, Science, Technology and Environment Rahul Tewari announced the decision of the Punjab government for environment protection. He said the ban on single-use plastic will be imposed from July to make Punjab greener and healthier.

Tewari said the state "government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is committed to make Punjab clean, green and pollution-free by walking on the path shown by our revered Gurus".


The central government has decided to stop single-use plastic from July 1, which the Himachal Pradesh is also going to implement, Additional Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena said. He was speaking during the Environment Excellence Award distribution function organised by the State Environment, Science and Technology Department and Himachal Pradesh Council for Science Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE) on World Environment Day.

On the occasion, Prabodh Saxena said that Himachal Pradesh is very conscious about environmental protection and the state government is also taking steps for it from time to time. "Himachal Pradesh is the first state in the country to ban plastic envelopes. From July 1, the state government will also completely ban single use plastic and people's cooperation has been sought," he added.

The Centre had also issued an advisory to states and union territories to phase out single-use plastic and contribute to improve the environment under the overarching mandate of "Clean and Green".

Announcing to set up 55 Sewage Treatment Plants across the state, Tewari, according to an official statement, informed that these ultra-modern plants will reduce water pollution level to certain extent as well as use the treated water for cultivation and other allied activities. Meanwhile, he announced to institutionalise Shaheed Bhagat Singh Punjab State Environment Award for outstanding contribution towards environment protection and conservation of precious natural resources of the state. Tewari said the award, named after the legendary freedom fighter, will be a recognition to the outstanding hard work made by individuals/organizations for the preservation of natural resources.

On World Environment Day, HIMCOSTE also organised a cycle rally which was flagged off by Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj. This time World Environment Day is celebrated with the theme of 'Only One Earth'. Different programmes have been organised in Himachal Pradesh on World Environment Day.