An estimated 5,972 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste will be generated in Kerala during the 2026 assembly election season.
The projection is contained in the brochure ‘Green Assembly Elections 2026’ prepared by the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (Kerala) and the Department of Local Government with the help of Suchitwa Mission. The projected volume includes 2,150 tons of banners and advertising surfaces, 980 tons of flags and hangers and 1,416 tons of disposable cups, plates and prohibited plastic bags.
These projections are based on the assumption that the 140 assembly constituencies would have about 2,100 candidates for the April 9 election. With the Election Commission of India (EC) limiting the number of voters per polling station to 1,200, Kerala has 30,471 polling stations this time.
During the election period, they are trying to reduce the use of plastic and non-biodegradable waste. Director General (Kerala) Rathan U. Kelkar had issued a detailed circular in February to ensure that assembly polls are conducted in an environmentally friendly manner.
As part of the Green Protocol measures, candidates, political parties and election officials have been asked to avoid plastics, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and single-use materials during the campaign phase and during the election.
Posters, banners, billboards and billboards made of non-recyclable PVC flex, polyester, nylon and plastic-coated fabric are prohibited, according to the order containing the guidelines. Campaign materials made from government approved products, 100% cotton or plastic free paper or pollution control board (PCB) approved recyclable polyethylene can be used. However, all these materials should include a PVC-free label, a recyclable logo, print unit details and a certificate number/QR code issued by the PCB.
Political parties have been asked to avoid using single-use items and plastics at conventions, roadshows, meetings and rallies associated with their election campaigns. Among other things, the guidelines also prescribe green protocol measures to be followed in polling stations and the sorting and collection of waste generated in polling stations.
Published – 19 March 2026 20:17 IST
