Goa, a small state located on the southwest coast of India, is often referred to as "India's Little Paradise." It's known for its beautiful blue beaches, golden sand, 16th-century architecture, and delicious food, making it a popular destination for both Indians and foreigners alike. Unfortunately, like many tourist hotspots, Goa has also seen an increase in trash and litter. Plastic waste, Glass waste and footwear have been a particular problem, with news reports documenting litter being washed up on several beaches. In 2021, the Times of India reported that plastic, bottles, and caps were washed onto the Salcete coast. Another news outlet, Herald Goa, reported an increase in litter after the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were lifted in 2022. Glass bottles and footwear have become especially problematic for the marine ecosystem, with increases in litter ranging from 300% to 3000% according to research by PhD scholar Ritwik Nigam in the Palolem beach.
Microplastics, fragments of plastics smaller than 5 mm, have also become a significant issue. Research by Mua Shah and team from CSIR Oceanography, Goa has shown that different type of polymers has integrated into shellfish, finfish, water and sediment which suggested the distribution of plastic throughout the Indian coast and waters. Longshore draft winds are also known to increase the concentration of microplastics from June to January in Goa, and large tides during moon tides exacerbate the problem. They have also found fragments of microplastic in the digestive system of fishes adding tension to the problem.
To address the issue, the Government of Goa has banned single-use plastic in the region as of July 2022 this includes items such as balloons, ice-cream sticks, plates etc., and many beach clean-up initiatives like 'SAAF SAMUDRA'. Along with some creative ideas such
as a beer can in exchange for a Kilogram of plastic. ORRA also has a proposal about plastic credits as a viable option, along with rePurpose Global which supports 'Saaf Samudra' which takes in funding from companies with plastic in the supply chain and funds them with credits and also helps set up a system for the recovery of low-value plastic at the site(GOA). Such innovations not only help to clear the beaches but also uplifts the economy and create jobs. However, real change must come from individuals on the ground. Tourists, shopkeepers, and residents must all be more conscious of their waste and recycling habits.
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