The Hindu 23.12.2010
Anti-plastic awareness programmes begin in Salem city
Avoid plastic:A human chain to create awareness on the ill-effects of plastic was organised in Salem on Wednesday.
SALEM: With the city gearing up to ban non-biodegradable plastic bags and other plastic items from January 1, the Salem District administration has launched a series of awareness programmes for a week from Wednesday here.
In association with Salem Corporation, educational institutions and non-governmental organisations, the administration organised a human chain to create awareness on the ill-effects of plastic.
Leading the human chain, Collector J. Chandrakumar said that a ban on non-recyclable plastic bags and cups will come into effect from January 1. Traders and public are asked to refrain from using them.
Those who are found using will be penalized as per the law, he said .
Packing hot food stuff in plastic bags would cause various health problems, he cautioned.
Handbills
Corporation Commissioner Dr. K.S. Palanisamy said that handbills were distributed at various points in the city. Marriage halls and hotels in Salem had been informed about the ban on plastics. The same instructions had been given to educational institutions so that students will be aware of the ills of plastic waste.
Mayor J. Rekha Priyadarshini, Commissioner Dr K.S. Palanisamy, environmentalists and others took part in the human chain, which was formed between Four Roads and New Bus stand.
