Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: Green Button campaign picks up pace in Kerala

The Suchitwa Mission’s green election campaign, titled Green Button, in association with the Election Commission of India (EC), is gaining traction across Kerala. The initiative aims at reducing waste generated during elections.

As in the recent local body polls, the agency is hopeful of reducing waste during the Assembly elections too. This time, the concept of going green has been creatively blended with the symbolism of the voting button to name the campaign.

“The key aim is to discourage political parties, candidates, and printing agencies from using banned materials. By using only permitted materials, waste generation can be minimised, while used campaign materials can be recycled into valuable products,” said the mission’s State programme officer, Ameersha.

Accordingly, intensive measures are being launched, structured into three key phases—pre-poll, election day and post-poll activities. At present, the pre-election campaign is being carried out, he said.

“Banned materials include non-recyclable materials and single-use articles. These are not allowed in any election procedures, and strict enforcement is being maintained. Enforcement squads have started seizing banned articles and imposing fines on defaulters,” said Mr. Ameersha.

During the local body elections, about 6,711 tonnes of waste was expected to be generated, according to an assessment by government agencies, he pointed out. “A portion of this comprised disposable cups and banners, whose usage could be reduced by up to 90%. It was estimated that 1,376 tonnes of waste would be generated from such materials, but it could be considerably brought down,” he added.

Election day campaigns revolve around the concept of ‘Green Booths.’ Mr. Ameersha said this does not mean decking up the venue with coconut fronds or other materials. “Facilities for waste segregation should be provided, and polling booths should be maintained as clean spaces,” he added. Waste management should also be implemented at campaign offices of political parties on polling day.

Post-election campaign focusses on ensuring the removal of banners and other articles by political parties and handing them over to waste management agencies. “If they fail to clean up spaces, they will be fined,” he added. “If the green protocol is followed, waste can be reduced by 60% to 70%. By avoiding banned items, 100% recycling can be ensured, further minimising waste,” said Mr. Ameersha.