Govt switches to eco-friendly products in its offices

Tribune News Service

Jammu, April 21

In a significant decision, the state government has switched over to the use of environment-friendly handmade paper folders and stationary items in all meetings, workshops and office work in the state.

The move is aimed at doing away with plastic folders, which a non-biodegradable substance, and improve the financial condition of rural artisans.

“The production of handmade paper is undertaken by rural artisans whose livelihood depends on this trade. All departments are advised to give preference to handmade paper folders and other stationery items for use in meetings, workshops and office work,” said a circular issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) here.

The circular said the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Khadi & Village Industries Commission (KVIC) had advised to do away with plastic folders stating that plastic was a non-biodegradable substance and its improper disposal caused many problems.

“Plastics are synthetic substances produced by chemical reactions. Almost all plastics are made from petroleum,” the government said while laying emphasis on encouraging the use of handmade paper folders and other stationery items that are environment-friendly.

It further said the monomers of petrochemical plastics were inorganic materials (such as styrene) and were not biodegradable.

“The KVIC patronises rural traditional village industries and handmade paper is one of the prime village industries under the purview of the KVIC. Handmade paper has been globally acclaimed as eco-friendly for its non-toxic, biodegradable properties since it does not use wood pulp as raw material,” the circular said, adding that the KVlC propagates usage of handmade paper to safeguard the ecological balance.

The circular added that plastic folders, which were conventionally used for meetings and workshops, could be replaced by handmade paper folders which were more durable and aesthetic in look.