Kamalpur Nagar Panchayat Adopts Compostable Bags to Combat Plastic Pollution

In a significant move towards sustainability, Kamalpur Nagar Panchayat in Tripura has launched compostable bags made from PBAT, a biodegradable and chemical-free polymer. This initiative serves as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic, which poses severe environmental challenges.

Biodegradable Solution

These innovative bags have received certification from the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology (CIPET), confirming they meet strict compostability and biodegradability standards. Unlike conventional plastics, which can take centuries to decompose, these bags break down within 180 days, offering a timely solution to the ongoing plastic pollution crisis.

Affordable Pricing

The compostable bags are economically accessible, with wholesale prices set at ₹145 per kilogram (approximately $1.74) and retail prices at ₹160 per kilogram (about $1.92). Their affordability is expected to encourage wider adoption among local residents and businesses alike.

Community Engagement and Education

Local authorities are actively promoting the use of these biodegradable bags through community engagement initiatives. Their goal is to reduce plastic waste and encourage responsible waste management practices. The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs emphasized the importance of this effort in its release, highlighting the need for collective action to foster a sustainable future.

Aligning with National Initiatives

This initiative aligns with the overarching goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, which is fostering innovation in cities across India through the RRR (Recycle, Reuse, Recover) model. Urban Local Bodies are leveraging infrastructure, technology, and citizen participation to cultivate sustainable, plastic-free lifestyles. Guided by principles of Swabhav, Swachhata, and Sanskar, the mission aims to drive grassroots change and support India’s Sustainable Development Goals.

By introducing these compostable bags, Kamalpur Nagar Panchayat is making strides toward reducing plastic consumption and promoting environmentally friendly practices among its community, contributing to a cleaner, greener future.