Gandhinagar, September 30 (Daily Kiran) : The Gujarat government has announced a phased elimination of plastic files and folders from its offices, aiming to enhance environmental protection. The General Administration Department has issued a circular outlining this initiative.
To reduce plastic waste generated during government operations, the state will promote eco-friendly alternatives to plastic stationery.
According to the circular, the ban will apply to all departments within the Gujarat Secretariat, as well as offices of department heads, public enterprises, corporations, government committees, autonomous bodies, local authorities, government universities, and grant-in-aid institutions. The use of plastic stationery will gradually decrease in day-to-day administrative tasks.
In place of plastic files and folders, materials such as paper, jute, and khadi will be utilized. This decision aligns with environmental guidelines issued under the Central Government’s Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 and the Plastic Waste Management Rules of 2016.
Arjunbhai Modhwadia, Gujarat’s Forest and Environment Minister, stated that the government aims to reduce the use of all types of plastic materials, including files. Initially, plastic files will be replaced with environmentally friendly paper files.
Environmental experts have welcomed this decision. Samir Rami, an environmental specialist, remarked that eliminating plastic files in government offices is a commendable step. He emphasized the need to minimize plastic use in daily life and highlighted that government initiatives can inspire citizens to prioritize environmental conservation.
To avoid wasting already purchased plastic folders and materials, the government will allow their use until existing stocks are depleted. After that, new purchases must prioritize eco-friendly options.
This initiative aims not only to reduce plastic waste in government offices but also to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. It is believed that such changes in governmental institutions could motivate other organizations and the general public to decrease their plastic usage.
Leave a Comment