Kolkata sees opportunity to boost jute industry in wake of plastic ban

By

Isabelle Crossley

Published
Jul 5, 2022

Following the introduction of the single-use plastic ban, markets in and around Kolkata are embracing sustainable jute shopping bags and the government sees this as an opportunity for innovation. 

“Bengal is blessed with its unique craftsmanship,” said Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav on a visit to Kolkata at the weekend, TNN reported. “The phasing out of single-use plastic will make room for innovative eco-friendly packaging materials and carry bags. The phasing out of thin plastic and other 19 banned items will give opportunities to newer entrepreneurs to invent and innovate. It is time to be vocal for local.”

An increase in the use of jute bags as a sustainable alternative for carrying shopping could be a boon to the jute industry, which has a significant base in Bengal. This could indeed aid the state’s entire manufacturing industry given the widespread need for and use of carry bags. 

Jute is a natural fibre which is extracted from the bark of the white jute plant and spun into strong threads. These threads can be woven to create textiles or made into rope or string. The textile’s strong and rough texture makes it popular for creating carry bags.