We all have probably seen the ads and packaging claiming that a product is “eco-friendly” or “biodegradable”. It sounds great, right? A plastic bag that disappears into thin air? But does it really?
Thankfully, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has given clarity in this matter. According to them, there’s no such thing as 100% biodegradable plastic. In fact, they’ve suggested to the Environment Ministry not to certify biodegradability of plastics as research is still ongoing in India and other countries.
You might be thinking, “But what about those plant-based plastics made from cornstarch or sugarcane?” Well, the BIS says that these plastics might break down faster than traditional plastics, but they’re still not 100% biodegradable.
So, what’s the big deal? Why does it matter if a plastic is biodegradable or not? Well, for starters, it’s important to know the truth about the products we use and how they impact the environment. It’s easy to get swept up in the hype of “eco-friendly” products, but the reality is often more complicated than the marketing makes it seem.
As consumers, we have the power to make a difference. We can choose products that are truly eco-friendly, like reusable bags and containers, or products made from recycled materials. We can also reduce our overall plastic consumption by refusing single-use plastics and opting for alternatives whenever possible.
The truth is, the fight against plastic pollution is a complex one. It’s going to take a lot of work from all of us to make a real difference. But we can start by being informed and making conscious choices. As Uncle Ben once said, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Let’s use our power as consumers to create a better future for ourselves and the planet.
