Air quality management in 82 NACs under National Clean Air Programme discussed

A meeting was organised by MoEFCC with 82 non-attainment cities (NACs) under National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) regarding elimination of single use plastic (SUP) items as well as air quality management today. The meeting was attended by the Municipal Commissioners and senior officials of the State Governments from Environment, Urban Development and Local Self Government (LSG) Departments and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).

During the meeting, the Municipal Commissioners were informed about the ban on identified SUP items that will come into effect from 1st July 2022. It was informed that the notification was published on 12th August 2021. The Municipal Commissioners were requested to lead their teams with regard to efforts for enforcement within their jurisdiction. They were requested to help all stakeholders including traders, distributors, retailers as well as consumers to switch over to alternatives of the banned SUP items.

It was highlighted that the success of the ban will be possible with effective engagement and concerted actions by all the stakeholders.

The Municipal Commissioners assured effective enforcement and taking up of constructive engagement with the stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the ban and switch over to alternatives to the banned SUP items.