Meghalaya Introduces Green Deposit Scheme to Tackle Plastic Pollution at Ecotourism Sites

Published on December 16, 2025

In a bold move to combat the growing threat of plastic pollution, the Meghalaya government has launched a new Green Deposit scheme to reduce plastic waste at its popular ecotourism sites. Introduced on December 14, 2025, the scheme focuses on high-traffic tourist destinations such as Cherrapunjee, Dawki, and the Living Root Bridges, which have seen an increase in visitors, resulting in an alarming increase in plastic waste. The initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism practices and greater responsibility among travellers while protecting the state’s fragile ecosystems.

The Mechanism of the Green Deposit Scheme

The Green Deposit scheme introduces a refundable deposit for tourists carrying plastic items, including bottles, wrappers, and bags, into the notified ecotourism destinations. Upon entering these locations, visitors are required to pay a deposit of Rs 100. This deposit will be refunded when tourists dispose of their plastic waste responsibly at designated exit counters. The goal is to ensure proper disposal of non-biodegradable waste that could otherwise harm the environment, particularly the region’s rivers, forests, and other sensitive ecosystems.

By making tourists directly accountable for the waste they generate, the Green Deposit scheme aims to reduce the volume of plastic litter at key attractions and instill a sense of environmental responsibility in visitors. This move is seen as a step forward in managing the delicate balance between tourism growth and environmental sustainability in Meghalaya.

Addressing the Growing Plastic Pollution Problem

The rising number of tourists visiting Meghalaya’s ecotourism destinations has led to an exponential increase in plastic waste. Areas like Cherrapunjee, Dawki, and the Living Root Bridges have become popular not only for their breathtaking landscapes and unique natural features but also for their eco-friendly tourism initiatives. However, the popularity of these sites has also brought about significant environmental challenges.

Non-biodegradable plastic waste, which includes bottles, bags, and wrappers, has been accumulating at alarming rates, endangering the local wildlife and polluting the rivers that are central to the region’s ecological health. The rivers in Meghalaya, which are crucial to the livelihoods of local communities, are particularly vulnerable to contamination from plastic waste. This type of pollution poses long-term risks, not only to the environment but also to the tourism industry itself, as the region’s pristine landscapes and ecosystems are what draw tourists in the first place.

The Green Deposit scheme is part of the state government’s broader strategy to address these issues while promoting sustainable tourism. It is designed to curb the harmful effects of plastic pollution by incentivizing visitors to properly dispose of waste, thus mitigating the environmental impact of tourism.

Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Visitor Behaviour

The Green Deposit scheme reflects a growing trend in the global tourism industry towards sustainability and responsible travel. As the world’s most popular tourist destinations grapple with the challenges posed by overtourism and environmental degradation, initiatives like the Green Deposit scheme are gaining traction as effective solutions for preserving natural resources and protecting ecosystems.

Meghalaya’s initiative is designed not only to reduce plastic pollution but also to promote responsible tourism among visitors. By making tourists accountable for the waste they generate, the government hopes to encourage travelers to adopt more sustainable practices during their visits. Whether it’s carrying reusable bottles, avoiding single-use plastic, or properly disposing of waste, the scheme encourages behaviours that will have a positive impact on the local environment.

The government has emphasized that the success of the Green Deposit scheme depends on the active participation of tourists. Visitors are expected to follow the guidelines set by the authorities and take part in the initiative by disposing of their waste at designated counters. The refundable deposit system acts as both an incentive and a reminder for tourists to be more conscientious about their environmental footprint.

Pilot Launch and Future Expansion Plans

The Green Deposit scheme has initially been rolled out at some of Meghalaya’s most visited ecotourism destinations. Cherrapunjee, Dawki, and the Living Root Bridges were selected as the pilot sites due to the high number of visitors they attract. These locations, known for their rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes, have suffered greatly from the accumulation of plastic waste, prompting the government to introduce this initiative.

According to officials, the Green Deposit scheme will be closely monitored to assess its effectiveness in reducing plastic pollution and promoting responsible tourism. The government plans to collect data on the number of tourists participating in the scheme and the volume of plastic waste disposed of at the exit counters. Based on the results from the pilot phase, the scheme may be extended to other eco-sensitive areas in Meghalaya.

Meghalaya is home to many natural wonders, from the famous living root bridges to the lush forests of the Khasi Hills, and the Green Deposit scheme is an essential step toward preserving these treasures. If successful, it could serve as a model for other states and regions looking to manage the environmental impact of tourism while promoting sustainable travel practices.

Long-Term Impact on Tourism and the Environment

While the immediate goal of the Green Deposit scheme is to reduce plastic waste at specific ecotourism destinations, its broader impact could extend far beyond these sites. The scheme aligns with Meghalaya’s commitment to environmental conservation and its vision for a sustainable tourism industry that balances economic growth with ecological preservation.

In the long term, the Green Deposit scheme could help foster a culture of responsible tourism in Meghalaya and beyond. As more tourists become aware of the environmental impact of their actions, they may be more inclined to adopt sustainable travel habits, such as using eco-friendly products and reducing their reliance on plastic. Moreover, as other ecotourism destinations in India and around the world face similar challenges, Meghalaya’s initiative could inspire other regions to implement similar schemes.

The positive environmental outcomes of the Green Deposit scheme could also enhance the appeal of Meghalaya as a responsible travel destination. As travelers become increasingly concerned about the environmental consequences of their journeys, destinations that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices are likely to see increased interest and foot traffic.

A Step Toward Sustainable Tourism

The Green Deposit scheme is a significant step forward in Meghalaya’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism. By holding tourists responsible for their plastic waste, the government is taking a proactive approach to addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution. The programme not only aims to reduce plastic litter in popular ecotourism destinations, but it also encourages visitors to behave more responsibly and environmentally consciously during their travels.

As Meghalaya’s tourism industry grows, it will be critical to find new ways to balance visitor needs with the preservation of the region’s fragile ecosystems. The Green Deposit Scheme is a positive step in that direction, and its success may pave the way for more sustainable tourism practices in India and around the world.