Punjab Newsline | Mohali

The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) highlighted its initiatives to reduce plastic consumption and promote sustainable alternatives at the International Punjab Plastic Action Summit 2026, held at Amity University, Mohali.

The summit brought together policymakers, industry leaders, environmental experts and international organisations to discuss solutions to plastic pollution, strengthen recycling systems and improve plastic waste management across Punjab.

Punjab Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, Punjab Development Commission Vice Chairperson Seema Bansal, Director of Environment and Climate Change Dr Shailender Kaur, IFS, and representatives of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste and the World Bank attended the event.

A key highlight was PPCB’s Plastic Waste Brand Audit across six major cities of Punjab. The audit examined approximately 7,000 kg of sampled waste and traced nearly 12,000 packets to 231 companies, highlighting the need for stronger producer accountability.

PPCB Chairperson Reena Gupta stressed the importance of safe plastic waste collection, scientific processing and responsible disposal to protect soil, water and public health. She called for collective efforts by industries, government agencies and citizens to achieve the vision of a cleaner and greener ‘Rangla Punjab’.

The board also showcased initiatives such as Plastic-Free Langar at Fatehgarh Sahib, Plastic-Free Prasad at Kali Mandir in Patiala, and Plastic-Free Hola Mohalla at Sri Anandpur Sahib, where steel and biodegradable cutlery was used.

Additionally, a Plastic-Free Lunch Campaign and a Multi-Layered Plastic Collection Drive are being piloted in schools and colleges across Patiala to encourage responsible consumption and waste segregation among students.