Gandhinagar: The state govt has decided to phase out plastic folders and files across all its offices and institutions to make them more environment-friendly. The general administration department (GAD) has issued a circular directing govt offices to gradually reduce the use of plastic-based stationery and replace it with environment-friendly alternatives.The directive will cover all departments and offices in the state secretariat, offices of heads of departments, public sector undertakings, corporations, boards, autonomous institutions, local self-govt bodies, govt universities, and grant-in-aid institutions.Under the new guidelines, plastic folders and files used for day-to-day official work will be replaced with file covers made from paper, jute or cloth. The move is aimed at promoting sustainable work practices and reducing the generation of plastic waste from govt establishments, an official statement said.The decision has been taken in line with the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, which seek to minimise the use of plastic, particularly items that contribute to environmental pollution.Govt offices will be allowed to use their existing stock of plastic stationery until it is exhausted. Once the current stock runs out, authorities will be required to comply with new environmental guidelines to buy folders, files and related stationery.
