Environment & Ecology·Environmental Laws
Marine Pollution — Environmental Laws
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Version 1Updated 9 Mar 2026
| Entry | Year | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRZ Notification 2019 (superseding 2011) | 2019 | This notification revised and replaced the earlier Coastal Regulation Zone Notification of 2011. It aimed to promote sustainable development while protecting coastal ecosystems. Key changes included allowing higher Floor Space Index (FSI) for urban areas, streamlining the clearance process, and focusing on tourism infrastructure in certain zones. It also emphasized the preparation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plans. | While intended to balance development and conservation, the 2019 CRZ Notification has been criticized for potentially diluting environmental safeguards in favor of economic development, particularly in CRZ-II and CRZ-III areas. It has implications for increased construction and tourism activities, which could exacerbate pollution if not strictly monitored and regulated. From a marine pollution perspective, the challenge lies in ensuring that increased developmental activities do not lead to greater discharge of sewage, plastic waste, and industrial effluents into coastal waters. |
| Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021 | 2021 | These rules amended the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, primarily to prohibit identified single-use plastic items that have low utility and high littering potential. The ban on these items came into effect from July 1, 2022. The rules also increased the thickness of plastic carry bags to 120 microns by December 31, 2022, to promote their reuse. | The amendment is a significant step towards reducing plastic pollution, particularly the leakage of single-use plastics into marine environments. By banning items like plastic cutlery, ear-buds, and certain packaging films, it aims to curb a major source of marine litter. The increased thickness for carry bags encourages durability and reuse, reducing their contribution to environmental pollution. However, effective implementation, enforcement, and the availability of affordable alternatives remain critical for its success in significantly reducing marine plastic load. |