GOA MARKETS GO SUSTAINABLE HOW GREEN PRACTICES ARE TAKING ROOT IN LOCAL COMMERCE

Introduction: A New Ethos in Familiar Spaces In Goa, markets are more than mere trading zones; they are a way of life. From the clamour of Mapusa to the coastal charm of Vasco, these spaces pulse with history, colour, and local identity.

- By Gauri Ghadge

But as climate urgency deepens and ecological consciousness grows, these age-old spaces are undergoing a quiet transformation. Sustainability is no longer limited to state policies or elite resorts; it has entered the vegetable stalls, fish markets, and flower vendors’ carts across Goa. From banning single-use plastics to improving waste management and promoting reusable alternatives, Goa’s markets are inching toward a greener future, though challenges remain.

PLASTIC BAN: A POLICY ANCHORED IN PRACTICE

Goa first initiated restrictions on plastic bags below 75 microns in 2021. This was in line with national directives under the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021. On July 1, 2022, a nationwide ban on select singleuse plastic (SUP) items came into effect, targeting items like polystyrene plates, plastic cutlery, straws, and thin carry bags. Municipal bodies such as the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and the Margao Municipal Council have since rolled out awareness drives, conducted inspections, and imposed spot fines. Many markets, especially in urban hubs have shown visible compliance, with vendors shifting to newspaper wraps, cloth bags, or encouraging customers to bring their own. However, plastic use continues in many rural and semi-urban markets. Vendors in areas like Bicholim, Canacona, and Sanguem cite the high cost of alternatives and lack of enforcement as barriers. In these markets, the ban remains more aspirational than practical.

WASTE SEGREGATION & COMPOSTING: LEARNING FROM SALIGAO

One of Goa’s most successful sustainability mode l s i s t he Sa l igao So l i d Was te Management Facility (SWMF). Managed by Hindustan Waste Treatment Pvt Ltd under the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC), the facility processes 250 tonnes per day (TPD) of municipal solid waste from across North Goa.