SRINAGAR: The Central University of Kashmir has imposed a complete ban on the use of polythene and single-use plastic (SUP) items across its campus, in line with the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021 issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
According to an official circular issued by the university’s Academic Affairs section, the prohibition covers a wide range of items with low utility and high littering potential, including plastic carry bags, disposable cutlery, thermocol products, plastic straws and stirrers, and certain plastic packaging materials.
The circular directs all departments, centres and administrative offices to immediately discontinue the use of such items and adopt eco-friendly alternatives such as paper, cloth, jute, glass and metal in all academic and official activities.
It further mandates that plastic-based banners and flexes should be avoided, and where necessary, only cloth-based or fully biodegradable materials must be used. The use of plastic folders, disposable water bottles and plastic-wrapped bouquets during meetings, seminars and conferences has also been discouraged.
Event organisers have been instructed to ensure that no banned SUP items are procured, distributed or used during any university programme. Procurement authorities have been directed to exclude such items from tenders and purchase orders, while incorporating provisions favouring sustainable alternatives.
The university has also emphasised proper waste management practices, directing that all waste be segregated at source and disposed of in designated bins. Departments have been asked to ensure adequate waste collection facilities and to coordinate with the Estate or Procurement Section where such arrangements are lacking.
Additionally, the circular calls for periodic awareness programmes to sensitise students and staff about reducing plastic use and promoting sustainable practices.
