KOCHI: Green polling booths have been set up in the district to make the local self-government elections environment-friendly. Based on the green guidelines issued by the State Election Commission, the green polling booths have been set up under the leadership of various LSGDs under the aegis of the District Suchitwa Mission.
A total of 574 green polling booths have been set up in the district. The model booths have been built using eco-friendly materials such as palm fronds, bamboo, reeds and mats. Messages highlighting the importance of voting and adherence to green rules have been displayed in the booths.
The State Election Commission has directed that green rules should be strictly followed at all stages, starting from election campaign activities to post-poll cleaning. Only eco-friendly materials should be used in campaign materials and booth setups, excluding plastic, said a Suchitwa Mission official.
Items made of plastic such as PVC, flux, polyester and nylon, should not be used in boards, banners, hoardings and posters for campaigning. Only recyclable materials, such as the Pollution Control Board-certified paper, 100% cotton and linen, should be used.
Styrofoam, plastic cups and disposable containers with plastic coating are prohibited in the booths. Food should be served in banana leaves or steel/ceramic containers. Plastic bottles and parcel covers are not allowed. Drinking water should be served in steel or glass cups.
Voters should not leave their voter slips anywhere in the booth premises and deposit them in the special bins provided. Waste will be collected and disposed of scientifically at the counting centres and distribution and reception centres.