Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, convened a meeting on Sunday with key officials, including Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Inspector Generals of Police, and Superintendents of Police, to discuss the enforcement of a ban on plastic polythene and polypropylene bags, reads a Press Release.
The meeting, held virtually, focused on strategies to combat the environmental hazards posed by these materials.
Beginning October 1, a targeted operation will commence to eliminate polythene usage in superstores, followed by an expansion to ten wet markets in Dhaka starting November 1. Hasan announced that a nationwide crackdown on polythene manufacturers will also launch on November 1, emphasizing the need for comprehensive cooperation from all administrative bodies to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Highlighting the detrimental effects of plastic polythene on the environment, Hasan detailed its role in soil degradation, water pollution, and the threat it poses to biodiversity. She called for urgent and decisive action from local authorities to halt the production, distribution, and consumption of these harmful bags.
The Advisor also urged officials to tackle related environmental issues, such as hill cutting, river encroachment, and pollution, stressing that coordinated efforts are essential for achieving a polythene-free Bangladesh.
In response to her call, the officials pledged their commitment to the initiative, promising to enhance public awareness and enforce stringent regulations in their regions. Hasan’s directive underscores a crucial step in the government’s broader environmental strategy, aiming to mitigate the severe impacts of plastic waste and foster a sustainable future.
