The Kerala Legislative Assembly on Friday highlighted the perils posed by the growing use of misleadingly named “paper cups” containing imperceptible microplastics and toxic inner coatings.
Janata Dal (Secular) MLA Mathew T. Thomas drew Minister for Local Bodies M.B. Rajesh’s attention to the health hazards and environmental harm posed by the widespread use of such items, including those used for packing hot takeaways from fast food eateries.
He said a large segment of businesses, which cater food at social events, including weddings and conferences, prefer cheap and easily disposable “paper cups” over conventional tableware.
Mr Thomas said the inner coating of such paper cups contained heavy metals and microplastics. “People unknowingly ingest the hazardous elements when they consume hot beverages or food contained in such vessels”, he added.
Mr Thomas also noted piles of plastic cups, bowls, plates, and carry bags blighting parks, beaches, gardens, and public spaces, burdening municipal workers, especially during weekends, national holidays, and festivals. He said plastic posed a threat to the marine environment and imperilled the livelihood of lakhs of fisher families and contaminated the daily catch.
