Standard Aims to Reduce Plastic Pollution and Promote Sustainability, promotes environmental conservation, circular economy and consumer well-beingĀ
Synopsis
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has released a new standard for biodegradable agri by-product utensils. The standard, IS 18267: 2023, provides comprehensive guidelines to manufacturers and consumers, ensuring uniformity in quality requirements across the country.
NEW DELHI (India CSR): The implementation of this standard has extensive advantages as using biodegradable agri by-product utensils can contribute towards environmental safety, conserve natural resources, and promote a circular economy. These utensils are free from harmful additives and ensure consumer well-being. The standard also creates economic opportunities for farmers and supports sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to rural development.
The rising use of disposable tableware worldwide is driving the global market for disposable tableware. Disposable plateās market size was valued at USD 4.26 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 6.73 Billion by 2028, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.94% from 2021 to 2028.
In India, numerous large-scale and Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) level manufacturers are actively contributing to the production of biodegradable cutlery, and they stand to benefit immensely with this Standard. The demand for these products is consistently rising, leading to a steady growth in the number of manufacturers involved in their production.
The standard covers various aspects, including:
- Raw materials
- Manufacturing techniques
- Performance
- Hygiene requirements
It specifies the use of agricultural by-products, such as leaves and sheaths, as preferred materials for making plates, cups, bowls, and more. The standard recommends appropriate parts of plants and trees and provides manufacturing techniques like hot pressing, cold pressing, moulding, and stitching. It also emphasizes smooth surfaces, non-sharp edges, and prohibits the use of chemicals, resins and adhesives.
Advantages of Using Biodegradable Utensils
- Environmental safety: Biodegradable utensils can contribute towards environmental safety by reducing plastic pollution.
- Conservation of natural resources: Biodegradable utensils are made from agricultural by-products, which helps to conserve natural resources.
- Circular economy: Biodegradable utensils promote a circular economy by being able to be broken down into natural components and returned to the environment.
- Free from harmful additives: Biodegradable utensils are free from harmful additives, which ensures consumer well-being.
The market for Biodegradable Utensils
The global market for disposable tableware is growing, and the demand for biodegradable utensils is increasing.
In India, the demand for biodegradable utensils is also increasing, and the number of manufacturers of these utensils is growing.
Standard Covers Various Aspects
The standard covers various aspects of biodegradable utensils, including:
- Raw materials
- Manufacturing techniques
- Performance
- Hygiene requirements
Conclusion
The release of this new standard is a significant step towards reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainability in India. The standard will help to ensure that biodegradable agri by-product utensils are of high quality and meet the needs of consumers. It will also help to create economic opportunities for farmers and support sustainable agricultural practices.
Call to action
Manufacturers and consumers can learn more about the new standard by visiting the BIS website.
