Himachal decides to ban use of PET bottles in govt. meetings, hotels with effect from June 1-OxBig News Network

Concerned over their high potential for littering, the Himachal Pradesh government has decided to prohibit the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles in all indoor official meetings, conferences, and events organised by the government bodies, besides the government-run and private hotels.

The ban on the use of small PET bottles will come into effect from June 1.

“Keeping in view the environmental concerns, the State government, in exercise of powers under sub-section (1) of Section 3-A of the H.P. Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, has issued a notification prohibiting the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles (up to 500 ml) in all indoor official meetings, conferences, and events organised by the government departments, boards, corporations, and other State government organisations,” an official statement said.

In Shimla, D.C. Rana, director (environment, science and technology), said the decision has been made keeping in view the widespread use of PET water bottles, which has raised significant environmental concerns due to their high potential for littering.

“This prohibition also applies to Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) hotels and private hotels in the State. These entities shall adopt sustainable alternatives such as glass bottles, water dispensers-kiosks of steel containers. The State government has also authorised officials from different departments to compound offences in respect of these prohibited items,” he added.

Mr. Rana said that the State government has also imposed a ban on the use of certain non-biodegradable materials and littering of non-biodegradable waste in the State under the above mentioned Act to prevent pollution, save and protect the environment.