India, July 9 -- COVID-19 has been the harbinger of sweeping changes in our lives. Since the lockdown, a new habit has been formed at my residence, that of not only washing our hands, but also washing and sanitising each and every article that has been brought from outside, including vegetables, fruits and anything that comes in a plastic packet.

In an age wherein our energies are focused on surviving the pandemic without contracting the virus, and prioritising our mental and physical health, the issue of waste management surely takes a backseat. However, ignoring this issue does not make the problem go away.

The virus has changed the way we perceive the world and other human beings. There is a general sense of mistrust among all of us, w...