Andhra Pradesh has banned single-use plastics in public places. The ban was officially announced on June 17, 2025, and is set to take effect on October 2, 2025. This decision was made during a review meeting focused on the circular economy. The ban includes a wide range of plastic products deemed non-essential and difficult to recycle, according to Sundha Polymers. The state government is implementing the ban in phases to allow industries time to adapt and innovate.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also announced a complete ban on single-use plastics in 17 municipal corporations, including Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Tirupati and Rajamahendravaram, from October 2, 2025 to promote sustainable practices. Alongside this, a new circular economy policy will be evolved within two months to enhance waste management across the State.
The ban aims to address the environmental hazards associated with plastic waste and encourage a shift towards more sustainable practices. This initiative aligns with a broader national effort to phase out single-use plastics, according to the Centre for Science and Environment.
The specific items targeted by the ban include:
Single-use plastic cutlery, plates, and straws
Ear sticks with plastic pins
Plastic balloon pins
Plastic flags
Candy sticks
Popsicle sticks
Polystyrene for decoration
Plastic plates, cups, glasses, cutlery
Plastic straws