Banned plastics till rampant across Indian cities despite SUP ban: Study

New Delhi: Three years after the Government of India enforced a nationwide ban on several single-use plastic (SUP) items, violations remain widespread across major urban centres, according to a new study by environmental group Toxics Link.

The report, titled “Revisiting Single Use Plastic Ban,” reveals that banned plastic products are still present in 84 percent of 560 surveyed locations across Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, and Bhubaneswar, underscoring significant gaps in enforcement.

Bhubaneswar recorded the highest prevalence at 89 percent of surveyed locations, followed by Delhi (86 percent), Mumbai (85 percent), and Guwahati (76 percent).

The study, conducted between April and August 2025, covered a wide range of establishments—from street vendors and local markets to malls, railway platforms, and organised retail outlets.

The continued presence of banned plastic items across most locations points to inconsistent enforcement, said Ravi Agarwal, adding that without stronger implementation and supply control, the ban will not effectively address plastic pollution.

The report highlights stark differences between sectors, with informal markets and small vendors, such as street food stalls, juice sellers, and vegetable vendors, showing near-total reliance on banned SUP items like thin plastic carry bags, disposable cutlery, cups, plates, and straws.

In contrast, malls and large retail outlets showed significantly better compliance. Consumer demand continues to drive usage, with 91 percent of small vendors reporting that customers still expect plastic carry bags, while also citing the higher cost of alternatives as a key barrier.

Although eco-friendly alternatives such as paper products, wooden cutlery, cloth bags, and bagasse-based items are available, their adoption remains limited.

According to Satish Sinha, consumer perceptions that disposable plastics are more hygienic, along with cost advantages, continue to sustain their demand, especially among small vendors.

The study also points to gaps in regulating production and supply, noting that banned plastic items continue to be manufactured and distributed through informal channels, making them easily accessible. Limited public awareness about the environmental impact further compounds the issue.

Referring to global efforts such as the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution fifth session, the report calls for stronger national action, including stricter enforcement, targeted monitoring of low-compliance sectors, improved affordability and availability of alternatives, sustained public awareness campaigns.

“India must move beyond bans towards sustained behaviour change and systemic solutions,” Sinha said, emphasising that better enforcement, affordable alternatives, and stronger control over production are essential to reduce plastic pollution