Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 5 Jun: On World Environment Day 2025, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Uttarakhand, in collaboration with Himalaya Wellness Company organised a session on “Ending Global Plastic Pollution’’, here, today.
Appreciating the initiative, MLA Savita Kapoor (Garhi Cantt, Dehradun) emphasised the importance of instilling environmental responsibility in children. “They are the future,” she remarked, “and must grow up with strong eco-conscious values to protect and preserve our planet.’’
Aryandra Sharma, Vice President of the Indian National Congress, Uttarakhand, stressed the need for immediate action against plastic pollution, citing its devastating impact on oceans, rivers, and landscapes, which is contributing to the increase in barren land across Uttarakhand. Emphasising the importance of protecting our planet, he advocated for collective action based on the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
Raising concerns over the rising use of single-use plastics, Dr S Farooq, Past Chairman of CII Uttarakhand, and President, Himalaya Wellness Company, Dehradun, stressed that while total elimination of plastic from people’s lives may not be feasible in the short term, individuals and communities must make conscious efforts to reduce usage. “Even small changes in behaviour can create a significant cumulative impact,” he opined.
Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue but a multi-dimensional crisis, said Sanjay Agarwal, Vice Chairman of CII Uttarakhand State Council. He highlighted the ecological, socio-economic, and public health dimensions of the problem and called for systemic reforms, including stronger policy frameworks, industry-led innovations, and widespread citizen education. He also urged proper segregation of waste at the time of collection at the municipal level.
The importance of community engagement in combating plastic waste was a key point raised by Rakesh Oberai, Mentor of the CII Uttarakhand Panel on Environment and MD of Oberai Motors. He highlighted the role of local clean-up drives, community recycling centres, and effective waste management systems. Applauding Uttarakhand’s ban on polythene bags, he noted that enforcement remains a challenge and called for stronger regulations and incentives for biodegradable alternatives.
The session concluded with a resounding message: ending plastic pollution is a shared responsibility.
