The Kerala High Court has taken a major step towards environmental protection by banning single-use plastics in key public and private spaces across the State. On June 17, 2025, a special bench of Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas and Justice Gopinath P. passed detailed directions in the suo motu case Suo Moto v. State of Kerala (WP(C) No. 7844/2023), aiming to curb the increasing threat of plastic pollution.
The Court banned the use and sale of single-use plastic items like plastic food containers, cups, plates, straws, sachets, and bakery boxes in popular hilly tourist destinations with high footfall such as Munnar, Thekkady, Vagamon, and others. However, the ban does not apply to plastic water bottles of 5 litres and soft drink bottles of 2 litres or above.
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“This ban shall not apply to 5 litre plastic water bottles and 2 litre plastic soft drink bottles,”
— Kerala High Court
Plastic items including water bottles (under 5L), soft drink bottles (under 2L), straws, cups, plates, and cutlery have also been prohibited in all official State and Central government events in Kerala. The same ban is extended to weddings, restaurants, hotels, and auditoriums across the State. Licenses for these establishments will now include mandatory conditions against use of banned plastic items.
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The Court further directed the setting up of water kiosks and promoting the use of glass or steel bottles in hilly areas. Tourists must be discouraged from carrying single-use plastic bottles and should instead bring reusable ones.
“Tourists shall be prevented from carrying single-use plastics to hilly areas,”
— Kerala High Court
Authorities have also been instructed to take steps to prevent plastic waste dumping into rivers, canals, and backwaters. Local bodies are expected to ensure regular collection and disposal of plastic waste. Additionally, awareness campaigns via print and visual media have been mandated to educate the public on the dangers of plastic pollution.
“It is essential that we conserve our environment for future generations, a trust bestowed upon us,”
— Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas
The Court emphasized the importance of implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility provisions under Rule 9 of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. These directions will take effect from October 2, 2025—Gandhi Jayanti.
The Chief Secretary and Special Secretary of the Local Self Government Department have been directed to coordinate with other agencies like the Pollution Control Board and State Police for smooth execution.
Case Title: Suo Moto v State of Kerala
Case Number: WP (C) 7844/2023
