Our focus story this week is on the recent report that India is responsible for around one-fifth of global plastic emissions , of around 9.3 million metric tonnes per year.
In this week’s Interview, environmental activist Roshan Rai addresses the complexities of India’s role in global plastic pollution. While India is often criticized as a top contributor to plastic waste, Rai points out a fundamental issue with the way reports frame this narrative. Citing the recent report by the University of Leeds, he explains how India’s contribution to plastic pollution is often misunderstood due to a narrow definition of pollution that focuses solely on unmanaged waste, ignoring the broader context of plastic production, legacy waste, and global waste transfer.
Rai challenges the report’s portrayal of India as a leading plastic polluter despite its relatively low plastic production compared to major producing nations. He emphasizes that pollution begins with extraction and production, not just disposal. Developed nations, particularly in the Global North, have historically exported their waste to developing countries, including India, Vietnam, and Indonesia, further complicating the global waste crisis.
The conversation also highlights India’s progressive legislation, specifically the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules introduced in 2022, which hold producers, importers, and brand owners accountable for managing the waste they generate. Rai stresses the importance of implementing these regulations to mitigate the environmental impact.
Finally, Rai advocates for a fundamental shift in how we define growth and sustainability, arguing that pollution is intrinsically linked to the global climate crisis. He calls for not just individual awareness and action, but also systemic change to reduce unnecessary plastic production, promoting sustainable choices for the health of our planet.
