NEW DELHI: In an effort to ensure “sustainable” polls, Election Commission on Saturday released a set of instructions for the poll machinery and political parties regarding waste management for the upcoming general elections.
“In a step towards sustainable or eco-friendly elections, we are making efforts to minimise single-use plastic and encourage eco-friendly practices in the election process”, CEC Rajiv Kumar said.
A set of instructions has been issued to the poll machinery and political parties for waste management, minimisation of paper and reducing carbon footprint,” Kumar added.
The commission has directed that single-use plastic be completely avoided, separate collection bins and proper signage and adequate disposal facilities be provided for each type of waste, local waste management and recycling facilities be partnered with, that paper be used sparingly for voter lists and electoral materials, that double-side printing and layout optimisation be ensured, and that electronic modes of communication be encouraged.
In a bid to reduce carbon footprint, the EC has urged officials and political parties to opt for carpooling, use public transportation during campaigning and election season, and consolidate polling locations to reduce the distance traveled by officials and voters.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be held in 7 phases from April 19 to June 1, the Election Commission announced on Saturday. The counting of votes will be on June 4.