ISAS Insights

‘White pollution’ – caused by plastic waste, such as the rampant usage of plastic carry-bags for their convenience, overlooking their impact on environmental degradation – has become a growing concern for sustainable living in both Kolkata in India and Chittagong in Bangladesh. The circulation of these single-use carry-bags is more visible in the unorganised retail market. Though controls are in place in both these cities, the problem of ‘white pollution’ is on the upswing. The long-term effective management of ‘white pollution’ demandsthe implementation of efficient market-based alternatives, along with the proper enforcement of a command and control policy. However, the choice of market-based alternatives lies in knowledge, ethical responsibility and integrity of the users of plastic carry-bags in the areas concerned.