Athul K P
athul@herald-goa.com
The theme for this year’s World Environment Day (June 5) is ‘Ending Global Plastic Pollution’ — a call that rings especially loud in Goa. The state, famed for its beaches and biodiversity, holds a less flattering distinction: the highest per capita plastic production in the country. And the crisis is only getting worse.
The volume of plastic waste — particularly non-recyclable varieties — is increasing by the day. While recyclable plastic is relatively scarce, cheap and easily available single-use plastics dominate consumption. Many people don’t even realise how much plastic they use, or where it ends up once discarded.
Clinton Vaz, founder of VRecycle Waste Management Services — a pioneer in Goa’s recycling space since 1999 — notes a troubling trend: “The amount of plastic waste that cannot be recycled is growing day by day. Single-use plastics, multilayer packaging, and plastic carry bags are destroying the beauty of Goa.” His organisation currently collects waste from more than 50,000 households across the state.
From takeaway containers and snack wrappers to plastic bottles and bags, these disposable plastics are everywhere. Designed for convenience, they’re used once and dumped — often finding their way into rivers, forests, and oceans. In a small state with a massive tourist influx, this deluge of waste only intensifies. Each year, millions of tourists arrive with their packaged goods in tow, leaving behind a trail of trash. Beaches are strewn with wrappers; towns overflow with plastic bags.
Non-recyclable plastic is particularly sinister — it takes centuries to decompose and releases toxins into the soil, water, and air. It’s not just unsightly; it’s dangerous for the ecosystem and its creatures.
Roland Martins, Co-ordinator of GOACAN and member of the State Level Advisory Committee (SLAC), calls for urgent, visible action: “The government must eliminate single-use plastics at all official functions. Lawmakers must lead by example, not break the law. Weekly reports of raids, seizures, and fines will show that Goa is serious.” He adds, “The battle against plastic pollution must begin on World Environment Day, 5th June 2025 — there is no time to waste.”
Environmentalist Rajan S. Ghate echoes this urgency. “Goa must become an eco-conscious state — before it’s too late,” he warns. While public awareness is crucial, he stresses that enforcement is the missing link. “The rules exist. The action doesn’t. The government must act now.”
The future of Goa hinges on shared responsibility. Whether you’re a resident, a tourist, or a policymaker, the message is clear: the fight against plastic starts with us. And it starts now.