QR code to check plastic

Manufacturers of biodegradable bags often lie about the microns of plastic in their products. Now, Bengaluru-based Ibhaan Digital Edge Advance Solution Pvt Ltd has come up with a solution to identify such substandard products.

The city-based company along with 22 other biodegradable bag manufactures have joined hands and started imprinting QR code (Quick Response) on the bags.

The QR code will help the consumers authenticate the bags on sale are indeed biodegradable.

“It shows the name of the manufacturer, their details, date of manufacture, microns and durability of the bag,” S Sairam, director, Ibhaan Digital Edge Advance Solution told DH.

“As many consumers are contributing to the mess, this move helps them use authentic products that are eco-friendly as proposed by the civic body. This has been supported by the Indian Compostable Polymer Association (ICPA) and the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board. 22 top biodegradable bag manufacturers are about to get permission from the BBMP,” said Sairam.

In 2016, Karnataka government imposed a ban on manufacturing, storing, using and distributing single-use plastics such as carry bags, flex banners, plates, cups, spoons and the like.

But the ban has not been completely effective due to many reasons including the fact that policy makers and manufacturers have failed to provide sustainable alternatives and raise community awareness.

The BBMP had imposed a ban on the use of plastic below 40 microns in its limits.

“This can also be termed as the aadhaar card for the bags as it helps both lawmakers and the common man,” Sairam added.