Baseline Report on Plastic Pollution in India

The INOPOL project has made result-oriented contribution to reduce chemical, marine litter and microplastics pollution in India. The research commenced by developing a comprehensive baseline report for land-based sources of plastic pollution, including both micro/macro-plastics. The compilation gathered existing knowledge, data and research while identifying gaps within the spheres of plastic pollution and waste management, thereby providing rich material for the project activities. Building on the project team’s strong experience within environmental monitoring and management, the ‘Baseline Report on Plastic Pollution in India’ established baselines on use and release of plastics in the two catchment areas in the State of Gujarat (Tapi and Daman Ganga rivers with Surat and Vapi as main industrial centres, respectively). The Baseline Report included the INOPOL project background, description of catchment areas, regulations and policy status, plastic pollution levels, existing monitoring activities and methodologies, health and environmental impacts of plastic pollution, best practices, gaps, and a way forward. The knowledge of the baseline report led to the development of a data collection strategy, sampling and analysis strategy, a monitoring strategy for plastic waste, policy notes and a plastic waste strategy report for Gujarat, and capacity building programs for key stakeholder groups.