While the state of Maharashtra has implemented a ban on plastic, the alternatives are still not in place. The city of Bengaluru has found an option which could prove to be a great alternative. These are the bags made from potatoes which are biodegradable and recyclable. These bags are made by EnviGreen- a Bengaluru-based company. And they would soon make ways as the alternative for plastic bags in the temple town of Tirupati.

From October 2, the day of the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission has been decided as a day fixed to cut-off sale and possession of plastic bags. So these biodegradable plastic bags could are being distributed by the social organisations with the help of the Municipal Corporation of Tirupati (MCT) to spread information about their use.

The exact material used in the making of these bags is not known but it is most likely made from potato and tapioca starch, vegetable oil and other organic waste. These bags are so eco-friendly as they dissolve in water and burn like paper. Also, they are stronger as compared to a normal plastic carry bag. The cost of the bag is also very affordable, around Rs. 1.50 per bag, compared to the other bags which are sold anywhere between Rs. 5 to Rs. 15, depending on the size. These bags also come in varying size and thickness.

These potato-based bags are definitely quicker to degrade as compared to a plastic material which takes decades to decompose.  But they are still not popular, especially in states where there is an imposed ban on plastic. We hope these bags come into use or are made readily available to people by the government authorities. While alternatives are being worked upon, these bags made from organic waste seem to be the best option.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 15, 2018 12:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).