In a move towards sustainable tourism, the Government of Meghalaya has launched a "Green Deposit" scheme designed to reduce plastic waste in the state’s eco-sensitive tourist destinations. The initiative aims to safeguard the region’s fragile ecosystems by encouraging responsible visitor behaviour and reinforcing Meghalaya’s status as a leading eco-tourism hub in India.
Under the newly introduced green deposit policy, tourists entering designated eco-tourism zones in Meghalaya will be required to pay a refundable green deposit of INR 100 if they are carrying plastic items such as water bottles, snack wrappers, or other non-biodegradable materials. This deposit will be returned upon proof of responsible disposal or return of the plastic items upon exit.
This step is designed to discourage littering, reduce the environmental footprint of tourism, and promote the concept of “leave no trace” among visitors.
Meghalaya, renowned for natural wonders such as Cherrapunjee, Dawki, and the Living Root Bridges, has seen a surge in tourism over the past decade. However, this has been accompanied by increased plastic pollution in many scenic locations.
Plastic waste—particularly single-use plastics like bottles and packaging—poses a serious threat to biodiversity and water quality in the state’s forested and riverine areas. The Green Deposit initiative directly addresses this issue by incentivising tourists to act responsibly and dispose of waste through proper channels.
The scheme is part of a broader strategy by the Meghalaya government to implement sustainable tourism practices. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has reportedly outlined plans to introduce eco-tourism zones with defined carrying capacities and increased environmental oversight. These zones may also include higher green fees, which will be reinvested into community welfare and conservation infrastructure.
The government has allocated INR 50 crore for tourism development in the 2024–25 financial year, with a strong focus on infrastructure that aligns with sustainability goals.
In support of the Green Deposit scheme, Meghalaya’s High Court has directed strict enforcement of plastic bans, particularly against items below 120 microns in thickness. Authorities are now reportedly conducting inspections, confiscating banned items, and raising public awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution to health and the environment.
Local communities and stakeholders have also been roped in to spread environmental awareness and participate in conservation efforts, making this a collaborative endeavour between the state and its citizens.
(with inputs from multiple reports)
