Plastic waste in Dubai

Slices, an organic bistro chain in Abu Dhabi, is making strides in sustainability through its use of recycled and biodegradable packaging materials. In Bhubaneswar, plans are underway to establish four bio-methane plants to manage the city's waste more effectively, aiming to process 200 tonnes of waste daily and alleviate pressure on existing waste management facilities. The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation is also looking to monetize green waste by creating briquettes from organic refuse, which could help utilize the city's daily generation of 10 tonnes of such waste. Meanwhile, concerns over the effectiveness of biodegradable plastics are mounting, as studies reveal that some labeled products do not decompose as promised, bringing health risks and environmental challenges. Judith Enck from Beyond Plastics emphasizes the need for stricter regulations on bioplastics and advocates for reducing plastic production altogether to mitigate widespread pollution. Startups like Swayambhu are addressing the plastic crisis by integrating waste management solutions that also promote community hygiene, highlighting the importance of tackling both wet and dry waste.