The Tamil Nadu government’s 2025-26 budget has proposed waste-to-energy plants and a clean-up drive as part of its waste management strategy. However, experts warn that this approach may not be sustainable in the long run. By encouraging industries that contribute to pollution, the government risks worsening the plastic crisis and putting public health and the environment in jeopardy. Critics argue that burning plastic waste in waste-to-energy plants releases harmful toxins into the air, further polluting the environment. They emphasize the importance of adopting more environmentally friendly and sustainable waste management practices to address the plastic crisis effectively. As India grapples with mounting waste management challenges, there is a growing need for innovative solutions that prioritize environmental protection and public health. Experts urge the government to reconsider its approach and invest in sustainable alternatives to combat the plastic crisis effectively.