EC issues advisories urging political parties to use only environment-friendly material, avoid single-use plastic in election campaign

The Election Commission of India has issued advisories urging political parties and candidates to use only environment-friendly material and to avoid single-use plastic and non-biodegradable material in their election campaign activities during the upcoming assembly elections in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana.

ECI is concerned with the environmental hazards caused by use of non-biodegradable materials in elections. Since protecting the environment is not an individual task but a collective responsibility, the ECI urges all political parties to avoid the use of plastic or polythene and similar non-biodegradable materials for the preparation of posters, banners during election campaigning in the interest of the environment and human health.

The Commission had issued instructions to all Chief Electoral Officers and political parties to make the elections an eco-friendly. The National Green Tribunal has also asked all concerned for close monitoring of ECI’s instructions in this regard. Materials like compostable plastics, natural fabrics, and recycled paper material, which have a lesser environmental impact need to be promoted in campaigning material as a sustainable and environmentally sound practice, the ECI pointed out. The upcoming General Elections present an opportunity to introduce a behavioural change in election campaigning by promoting sustainable practices.