India Must Transition to Eco-Friendly, Recyclable, and Biodegradable Options: Minister

Synopsis
Union Minister Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav emphasizes the need for India to transition to sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging alternatives. During a national consultation in Mumbai, he highlights the importance of modernizing packaging practices while incorporating India's traditional ecological methods.
Key Takeaways
- Shift towards sustainable packaging is crucial.
- Guidelines for rPET developed by FSSAI.
- Logo introduced for consumer recognition.
- Addressing plastic waste is a global concern.
- India can lead in sustainable practices.
New Delhi, April 17 (NationPress) India must transition to sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable options, stated Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav.
While inaugurating a national stakeholder consultation organized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in Mumbai, Jadhav emphasized the increasing significance of sustainable packaging for food products.
He announced that FSSAI has developed guidelines for the use of rPET in packaging after comprehensive discussions with stakeholders and adhering to top global practices.
Additionally, a logo has been created for easy recognition, which will benefit consumers of food products.
“Transitioning towards sustainable packaging methods is imperative,” Jadhav remarked.
He noted that the use of plastic is a significant global issue, as it can remain in the environment for years, leading to harmful consequences.
“What we require today is a move towards options that are sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable,” he further stated.
Jadhav praised India’s ancient traditional practices and stressed the necessity of merging old ecological methods with modern techniques to guarantee sustainability.
“India has the potential to spearhead this movement globally,” the Minister asserted.
He also commended the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and FSSAI for creating a vital platform through stakeholder consultations to discuss critical issues impacting the nation’s health and welfare.
The Minister of State for Ayush also hosted an informal open consultation with stakeholders, allowing them to express their challenges and discuss future pathways for enhancement and growth.
The consultation convened over 1,500 stakeholders from food businesses, packaging industries, recycling associations, regulatory entities, environmental organizations, consumer groups, farmer groups, and government departments to discuss the future of sustainable food packaging in India.