The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has launched an innovative campaign to curb plastic pollution and achieve a plastic-free state.

Temples, bustling with devotees, often become hotspots for plastic waste. But thanks to an innovative campaign by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, GPCB, this challenge is being met with creativity and technology. GPCB has installed cloth bag vending machines-similar to ATMs-at all the prominent temples across the state providing devotees with easy access to reusable cloth bags.

Similarly, reverse vending machines for plastic bottles, have been installed at seven major ST bus stands and one railway station, which have already recycled over 9,500 bottles in just two months. Currently, 14 machines have been installed at prominent temples in the state. Devotees can now receive prasad in eco-friendly cloth bags from these machines by paying Rs5 per bag by either inserting a ₹5 coin or paying through UPI mode. Chairman of the GPCB R.B.

Barad, said, Vending Machines have been installed to reduce plastic bag usage and promote cloth bags, making eco-friendly options more accessible and beneficial for everyone. He said the initiative has received a positive response from temple devotees, with over 5,000 bags sold within 60 days. To further expand this initiative, GPCB plans to install similar machines at 250 Amul Parlour outlets across the state within the next month.