Nanotechnology, genetic modification and advanced chemical processes have the potential to mitigate plastic pollution. These advancements can lead to the development of natural substitutes and the production of more biodegradable plastics

India generates over 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of which is from single-use items such as bags, wrappers, and packaging.1 Despite bans and regulations to manage waste, plastic continues to flood our markets, drains, and oceans.  Economic disparity remains a barrier, as non-plastic alternatives often come at a cost, and are inaccessible to lower income communities.

To me, World Environment Day presents us with an opportunity to not merely reflect—but to act. The theme of “Collective Action to Tackle Plastic Pollution,” reminds us that the plastic crisis is not someone else’s problem, it is totally ours. Solving this crisis demands a collective action – a united front from the government, private sector, and every citizen.

The Role of Government and Private Sector: Policy and Enforcement

India has taken commendable steps, including formation of the Plastic Waste Management rules and a ban on single-use plastics. The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework is a bold move by the Indian government to hold manufacturers and private companies accountable and build a strong value chain for plastic waste management in the country. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has recently launched a nationwide mass mobilisation campaign ‘One Nation, One Mission: End Plastic Pollution’, that reflects our commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.

Other geographies such as the European Union lead with comprehensive regulations, mandatory recycled content, and strong enforcement. China has implemented phased bans and strict import controls. The UK has robust EPR and sustainability policies. The US relies on state-level initiatives. Japan excels in recycling, particularly thermal recycling, and emphasizes design for recyclability. Overall, while policies vary, the most effective systems combine regulation, innovation, enforcement and self-discipline. To my mind, disciplining ourselves and our societies would go a long way in achieving the end objectives.

Global Collaborations Driving Change on Plastic 

Around the world, collaborative initiatives are gaining momentum to tackle plastic pollution at scale. The Plastic Pacts, active in countries like the UK, India, USA, France, Chile, South Africa etc., bring together businesses, governments, and NGOs, to set measurable targets for reducing plastic waste and promoting circularity. The Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW), a global non-profit, is investing in infrastructure, innovation, and education to eliminate plastic waste in the environment. Meanwhile, Circulate Capital is channelling impact investment into startups and enterprises across South and Southeast Asia that are building scalable solutions for plastic waste management and recycling. These global efforts underscore the power of collective action—uniting billions for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The important question today for us in India is – why does plastic continue to be a significant issue for us?

We need enhanced enforcement and active participation from the private sector for the following:

• Redesign packaging to be more recyclable, reusable, or compostable
• Invest in circular economy models that reduce plastic at the source
• Collaborate with recyclers and startups to scale sustainable alternatives
• Educate consumers through transparent labelling and awareness campaigns
• Need for more voluntary organizations that are dedicated to raising social awareness and implementing initiatives to promote sustainability

Technological interventions coupled with regulatory guidelines 

Emerging technologies such as nanotechnology, genetic modification and advanced chemical processes have the potential to mitigate plastic pollution. These advancements can lead to the development of natural substitutes and the production of more biodegradable plastics. In India, we are witnessing these in certain segments, for instance, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) supports technologies like Poly-Urja, which converts plastic waste into electricity. The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and its Urban 2.0 initiative are creating infrastructure for material recovery facilities, waste-to-energy plants, and recycling units.

Awareness and Action 

No policy or innovation from the private sector can succeed without public participation.

All of us as consumers can follow some simple rules:

• Refuse single-use plastics and carry reusable alternatives
• Segregate waste at home and support local recycling efforts
• Hold brands and authorities accountable for plastic management and finally
• Make informed decisions and prefer products with sustainable packaging

Together, We Can Turn the Tide 

Plastic pollution is a global issue that requires collective action. Strong enforcement by governments, innovation by businesses, and active participation from citizens can lead to real change.

Let World Environment Day 2025 be remembered for solutions launched. Let it mark the beginning of an Indian movement—where we no longer say, “Who will clean this up?” but instead confidently state, “We will.”

This op-ed was first published in the CNBC TV18 on 5^th June 2025 on account of World Environment Day