The Karnataka government has decided to permit the sale and use of plant-based compostable carry bags that biodegrade within 180 days, resolving the confusion over biodegradable and compostable bags.
During a review meeting on the implementation of the single-use plastic ban across Karnataka, Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre directed officials on Friday to allow the manufacture and sale of these eco-friendly bags.
In 2016, the state government banned single-use plastic items, including biodegradable carry bags, which caused confusion as markets were flooded with biodegradable and compostable alternatives. The government later clarified that all forms of plastic carry bags were banned.
However, the Government of India’s 2022 notification on single-use plastic allowed the manufacture and sale of plant-based compostable and biodegradable bags that degrade within 180 days. To align with this order and eliminate confusion, the Karnataka government has decided to comply with the central ban.
Minister Khandre instructed Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) officials to submit a proposal to withdraw the 2016 notification and replace it with the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules-2022.
Corn Starch Variety
Highlighting an innovation by the Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL) in Mysuru and other private firms, KSPCB officials informed the minister about the development of biodegradable carry bags made from corn starch. These bags must be used within six months and will decompose naturally within 180 days, regardless of usage.
“If these biodegradable carry bags are proven environmentally safe and degrade within 180 days, they will be permitted for use,” said Minister Khandre.
He emphasized that such alternatives should be affordable to encourage the public to switch from single-use plastic. The minister also instructed officials to showcase plant-based biodegradable and compostable bags during the Environment Day event at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium on July 3.
