By JAUN SHAHI
India, a land of vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, is also grappling with one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time—plastic pollution. From the serene backwaters of Kerala to the bustling streets of Delhi, plastic waste has become an unwelcome guest, threatening ecosystems, wildlife, and even human health. As we gear up to celebrate World Environment Day on June 5, 2025, under the theme of beat plastic pollution, it’s time for India to take centre stage in leading global efforts toward a cleaner, greener future.
This year’s campaign draws inspiration from nature, urging us to look at real-world solutions that already exist around us. It calls upon individuals, communities, businesses, and governments to adopt sustainable practices that can drive systemic change. The urgency of this mission cannot be overstated. Just two months after World Environment Day, countries will gather once again to negotiate a historic global treaty aimed at ending plastic pollution. For India, this presents both a responsibility and an opportunity to showcase its commitment to environmental stewardship on the world stage.
The scale of the problem is staggering. According to recent studies, India generates over 3.5 million metric tons of plastic waste annually, with less than 60% being recycled. The rest ends up clogging rivers, choking marine life, or piling up in overflowing landfills. Microplastics, tiny fragments of degraded plastic, have infiltrated not only our environment but also our food chain, raising serious concerns about long-term health impacts.
Yet, amidst these challenges lies hope. Across the country, grassroots movements are proving that collective action can make a difference. In Tamil Nadu, local women’s groups are turning discarded plastic into durable handwoven bags. In Maharashtra, beach clean-up drives led by volunteers have transformed once-littered coastlines into pristine havens for tourists and wildlife alike. In cities like Bengaluru and Pune, innovative startups are crafting biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics, offering eco-friendly options for everything from cutlery to packaging.
For travellers exploring India’s diverse wonders, there’s a unique role to play. Imagine visiting the Taj Mahal or cruising along the Ganges without encountering mounds of plastic waste. This vision isn’t far-fetched if each traveller commits to reducing their plastic footprint. Simple actions like carrying reusable water bottles, refusing plastic straws, and supporting local vendors who use sustainable packaging can collectively create a ripple effect. By choosing eco-conscious travel practices, visitors can help preserve India’s natural beauty while inspiring others to follow suit.
Businesses within the tourism sector must also step up. Hotels can replace miniature toiletries with refillable dispensers, airlines can offer plant-based meals served on compostable trays, and tour operators can organize zero-waste excursions. Such initiatives not only reduce plastic waste but also enhance the overall travel experience by aligning with the growing consumer demand for sustainability.
Government intervention remains crucial. India has already taken significant steps, such as banning certain types of single-use plastics and launching the Swachh Bharat Mission to improve waste management systems. However, more needs to be done. Strengthening recycling infrastructure, incentivizing green innovations, and enforcing stricter regulations on plastic production could amplify progress. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of plastic pollution would further empower citizens to act responsibly.
Nature itself serves as a guiding light. Mangroves filtering pollutants, fungi breaking down complex materials, and traditional Indian wisdom emphasizing harmony with the environment—all offer insights into living sustainably. By embracing these lessons, India can pioneer solutions that resonate globally.
As we mark World Environment Day 2025, let us remember that the fight against plastic pollution is deeply personal. Every piece of plastic we discard lingers in our soil, water, and air, affecting generations to come. But every effort to reduce, reuse, and recycle brings us closer to a brighter future.
Together, let’s turn India’s rich cultural heritage of respect for nature into actionable change. Let’s ensure that the stories travellers tell about our nation are ones of resilience, innovation, and hope. Because when it comes to protecting our planet, no story is too small, and no voice is insignificant.
Country Hosting the World Environment Day 2025
World Environment Day 2025 will be hosted by the Republic of Korea, with Jeju Province serving as the focal point for celebrations. Known for its stunning landscapes and commitment to sustainability, Jeju is leading efforts to combat plastic pollution, including a bold initiative to eliminate plastic by 2040. The province has implemented measures such as enhanced recycling systems, eco-tourism promotion, and mandatory waste segregation at the source.
As the host country, South Korea will spearhead global discussions, policy-making, and activities aimed at addressing plastic pollution. The event will feature panel discussions, cleanup drives, public pledges, and innovative showcases of plastic alternatives. By hosting this year’s celebrations, South Korea aims to inspire nations worldwide and share effective strategies for environmental conservation.
Industry Leaders on World Environment Day:
Ankush Nischal, Founder & CEO – TravGreen, a Sustainable Luxury Travel Company
Plastic pollution from travellers is an escalating concern, with tourism being a major contributor to environmental degradation. In 2024, global plastic waste production reached 220 million tons, with 69.5 million tons mismanaged and ultimately polluting natural ecosystems. During peak tourist seasons, marine pollution in areas like the Mediterranean can spike by over 40%, placing immense pressure on fragile coastal environments.
To reduce their environmental footprint, travellers should embrace sustainable practices—including the use of reusable items, staying at eco-friendly hotels and resorts, choosing sustainable transportation options, and engaging in responsible tourism experiences. Moreover, tourism boards and companies must step up by promoting awareness, supporting green infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of proper waste disposal systems. These collective actions are vital for preserving ecosystems and ensuring that destinations remain vibrant and accessible for future generations.
Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts
At The Fern Hotels & Resorts, sustainability has never been an afterthought but the cornerstone of our identity since inception. As India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, we remain deeply committed to practices that reduce ecological impact while enhancing guest comfort. Our properties are designed to meet stringent eco-standards, with initiatives ranging from energy-efficient infrastructure to real-time energy monitoring and water conservation systems. While we are gradually integrating digital tools to improve guest experience and operational efficiency, our core focus remains on creating genuinely sustainable hospitality models that resonate with today’s conscious traveller. In doing so, we don’t just follow the trend, we continue to lead it.
Vinesh Gupta, General Manager, The Den Hotel, Bangalore
India’s role in combating plastic pollution on World Environment Day 2025 is both crucial and commendable. Being in the hospitality industry, we wholeheartedly acknowledge our role in joining this national effort. I can confidently say that industry leaders are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to reduce plastic waste, aligning with India’s broader environmental vision. The hospitality sector holds a unique influence—what we practice within our operations often shapes the choices of our guests. Sustainability is no longer a trend; it is a necessity. With India enforcing strict regulations on single-use plastics, we have implemented measures such as refillable dispensers, eco-friendly partnerships, and guest awareness initiatives. Additionally, educating both our staff and patrons about mindful plastic consumption has been essential in fostering collective action. We continue to be dedicated to infusing green practices into all our guest experiences and to inspiring our teams and visitors to become active stewards of the environment.
