Aavin set to ditch plastic packets, to look for eco-friendly alternatives

In a landmark decision towards mitigating environmental pollution, Aavin, the Tamil Nadu Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation, has announced its intention to substitute plastic milk packets with eco-friendly alternatives. This move comes as a response to directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Southern Zone, after a petition filed by Chennai residents SP Surendranath Karthik and Ayya from Palayamkottai urged Aavin and similar firms to adopt sustainable packaging options like glass bottles.

During a recent hearing, the NGT’s Southern Zone bench, including judicial member Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and expert member Satyagopal Korlapati, was informed of Aavin's plan to explore green alternatives for milk distribution. The tribunal commended Aavin’s proactive approach and postponed the next hearing until April 8.

Concerns over increased costs and market share were raised by Ponnusamy of the TN Milk Dealers Labourers Welfare Association, who noted that transitioning from plastic could heighten production costs, which might be passed on to consumers. He stressed the importance of involving private dairies in this transition to ensure a balanced and holistic solution. The NGT has been advised to consider these factors in their forthcoming directives.