Alvarinho J Luis
One of the most repulsive aspects of visiting Goa is the increasing sight of garbage, particularly in local markets. The overwhelming stench from mounds of trash signals the municipal market's arrival. In many areas, including the capital, storm water drains serve little purpose, functioning as trash cans for passers-by to discard snack wrappers and plastic bags, often due to a lack of bins and civic sense. Additionally, in rural areas, it's common to see people setting fire to litter dumps, further exacerbating pollution and harming the environment.
A new study from the University of Leeds reveals the extent of uncollected rubbish and open burning of plastic waste in the first global plastics pollution inventory. Researchers used Artificial Intelligence to model waste management across 50,000 municipalities, predicting global waste generation and disposal. Their study, published in Nature, found that 52 million tonnes of plastic entered the environment in 2020, enough to circle the globe over 1,500 times.
The study revealed that over two-thirds of the planet's plastic pollution comes from uncollected garbage, affecting nearly 1.2 billion people—15% of the global population—who lack waste collection services. In 2020, around 30 million tonnes of plastics, accounting for 57% of all plastic pollution, were burned without environmental controls in homes, streets, and dumpsites. Burning solid waste significantly contributes to air pollution by releasing harmful particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, and non-methane volatile organic compounds. The toxic fumes and particulate matter from these fires pose serious health risks, including neurodevelopmental and reproductive issues, as well as birth defects.
Burning plastics releases dangerous chemicals, including dioxins, which are byproducts of chlorine-containing materials and can enter the food chain. Even chlorine-free plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene can be contaminated by other burned materials. Unburned plastic fragments become litter on land and in water, where animals may ingest them and become ill. Larger pieces can trap water, creating breeding grounds for diseases and habitats for mosquitoes.
Burning plastic also releases harmful chemicals such as benzo(a)pyrene (BAP) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, both of which are known carcinogens. Additionally, if agricultural bags or containers are contaminated with pesticides or other hazardous substances, these will be released into the air during combustion.
The 2020 National Cancer Registry Programme report reveals that 1 in 6 males and 1 in 7 females in India face a cumulative cancer risk by age 74. Rising air pollution has contributed to increasing lung cancer cases and deaths. A study published in The Lancet Oncology ranked Goa sixth in crude cancer incidence rates, with lung cancer being the leading cause of death among males. About 40% of women diagnosed with lung cancer in Goa are non-smokers, indicating that their living/working environments significantly impact their lung health.
Improving solid waste management can greatly reduce plastic pollution. Launched in 2014 by PM Modi, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan promotes cleanliness and sanitation across India. In 2024, Swachhata Hi Sewa will target neglected, high-risk areas like dump sites and boost community involvement in sustainable waste management.