Known as the miracle material, the properties that once made plastic an ideal product, is gravely a problematic one
Today, June 5th, marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day since its inception at the United Nations General Assembly in 1972. A global event that promotes awareness and action for the protection of the environment. This year’s theme under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution centres on solutions to plastic and its toxic waste. The participation of over 150 countries to this global event is a testament to the growing prominence of environmental issues worldwide.
Known as the miracle material, the properties that once made plastic an ideal product, is gravely a problematic one with severe consequences for our oceans and marine life. The annual production of 430 million tonnes of plastic indicates the magnitude of global plastic manufacturing, disturbingly an estimated 19-23 million tonnes of plastic finds its way into oceans and landfills remaining there as everlasting waste breaking down into smaller particles known as micro plastics posing major threats to not only marine ecosystems but also to health and well-being. Plastic has the potential to infiltrate the food we consume, the water we drink, and even the air we breathe.
At this juncture, it becomes most critical for society, governments, and businesses to collaborate as they relook, rethink and re-strategize as to how can one repair the damages done and save what is left of the planet.
Chairman of Godrej Industries Ltd., Nadir Godrej, in a recent conversation with ET Edge Insights is of the opinion that forward-thinking corporate leaders must be persuaded that doing the right thing is not just morally correct, but also financially advantageous, and they must come up with clever ways to benefit society, business, and the environment. All of this is doable; it simply takes effort and careful consideration.
He adds that being environmentally aware is important because it helps you identify the problems that need to be addressed and, once you do, finding solutions becomes much easier. The earlier issue was that we weren’t considering them.
Deepak Sharma, Zone President- Greater India & MD & CEO, Schneider Electric India states that “India is poised to become the world’s 3rd largest economy. According to a report by Marico Innovation Foundation, India generates 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only ~ 30 percent of it getting recycled. As the nation moves speedily on the path of urbanization and infrastructure development, it needs to address the impending challenge of climate change. Thus, sustainability is not merely a choice but a necessity.”
The Global Director of The Echo Network, Shannon Olsson while discussing the future of sustainability says that change is risky, and as you get bigger, you become more risk-averse. I think there is a lot of apprehension about implementing a completely new regime in all activities, whether they involve packaging or not. Numerous ideas and innovators are bringing new solutions to the world in original, sustainable ways. I think that’s what sustainability will look like in the future she defines.
However, there is a critical need for more accurate carbon emissions data and greater transparency around climate-related risks and opportunities. As governments and companies around the world draft strategies to address investor pressure and align with net-zero policies, there is an urgent need to need to bridge the divide between intent and action.
Repairing the environment is an issue that can no longer be procrastinated and one that requires the collective efforts of individuals, communities, governments, and businesses. It’s important to note that while countries and businesses are taking positive steps, there is still a long way to go. Collective action and commitment from leaders, along with broader societal efforts, are crucial to achieving meaningful and lasting environmental change.
Authored by: Queenie Nair
