Plastic pollution major concern in state: RK Amarjit
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 23 2024:
Plastic pollution has become a significant environmental issue in the state, necessitating effective replacement of single-use plastics with alternative products, stated conservator of forests (Central Circle) RK Amarjit, during a tree plantation programme organised by BJP Heingang Mandal on Sunday.
The event saw active participation from members of local clubs, Meira Paibi Lups, students, and athletes, who planted tree saplings around Luwangsangbam Mayai Leikai Pukhri Achouba.
RK Amarjit highlighted the severity of plastic pollution, pointing out the recent floods where large piles of discarded plastics were visible, much of which is expected to end up in Loktak Lake.
He cautioned that monomers, the primary components of polymers used in plastics, can cause cancer if ingested and called for eliminating single-use plastics, which have already been banned by the government.
In his address, Amarjit also emphasised the importance of forest conservation in combating climate change and mitigating its impacts, such as global warming.
He noted that the state is increasingly experiencing the effects of climate change, including extreme weather conditions, flash floods, droughts, erratic rainfall, and landslides.
He called for united public action, as government efforts alone are insufficient to tackle climate change.
While there is considerable awareness of climate change in the valley, thanks to the initiatives of local clubs, he pointed out that many in the hill districts are still unaware of its impacts.
In his address, BJP Heingang Mandal president K Jila mentioned that the tree plantation programme has been an annual event but was paused for a couple of years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
He urged for the conservation of forests and the promotion of responsible practices to combat climate change.