Content For Mains Enrichment (CME)
Source: TH
Context: Encouraging eco-conscious electoral practices in India is imperative amidst the climate crisis.
What is a Green Election?
A Green Election refers to an electoral process that prioritizes eco-conscious practices to minimize environmental impact. This includes reducing carbon footprints through measures such as using sustainable materials for campaign materials, adopting digital voting systems, promoting energy-efficient transportation, and minimizing waste generation
Initiatives for Green Elections in India and Worldwide:
India:
- Electronic Voting Machines: Introduced during 1998-2001
- Kerala’s Ban on Single-Use Plastic: During the 2019 general election, the Kerala State Election Commission urged political parties to avoid single-use plastic materials while campaigning. The Kerala High Court subsequently imposed a ban on flex and non-biodegradable materials in electioneering.
- Goa’s Eco-Friendly Election Booths: In 2022, the Goa State Biodiversity Board implemented eco-friendly election booths for the Assembly elections, utilizing biodegradable materials crafted by local traditional artisans.
Worldwide:
- Sri Lanka: Carbon-Sensitive Election Campaign: Sri Lanka’s SLPP party launched the world’s first carbon-sensitive environmentally friendly election campaign in 2019. They measured carbon emissions from campaign vehicles and electricity usage and compensated for these emissions by planting trees in each district, involving public participation.
- Estonia: Digital Voting: Estonia introduced digital voting as an online alternative during elections. This method encouraged voter participation and reduced the environmental impact associated with traditional voting methods.
