Dhaka, Feb 05 (V7N) – Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has dismissed rumors that the interim government has banned plastic use, stating that a group is spreading misinformation. However, she emphasized that reducing plastic consumption is crucial for protecting future generations.

Speaking at the ‘Conference on From Policy to Action’ in the capital on Wednesday morning, Rizwana Hasan highlighted the growing threat of plastic pollution, particularly in Bangladesh and neighboring countries.

Rising Plastic Waste: A Global Concern

  • Around 73,000 tons of plastic waste are dumped into the sea daily by China, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, making it the fifth-largest contributor to plastic pollution worldwide.
  • In Dhaka alone, daily plastic waste increased from 178 tons in 2005 to 646 tons in 2020, according to the World Bank.
  • Once discarded, plastic can take over 100 years to decompose, and microplastics are increasingly linked to health risks in humans.

Interim Government’s Stance on Plastic Use

  • The government has not imposed a blanket ban on plastic but has prohibited plastic bags and discouraged single-use plastics.
  • Discussions are underway with business leaders to find sustainable alternatives.
  • The Finnish government has expressed interest in collaborating with Bangladesh to reduce plastic usage.

Challenges & Call for Global Action

  • Abdullah Al Mamun, Deputy Director of the Department of Environment, acknowledged that completely eliminating plastic use is a major challenge, but awareness campaigns remain essential.
  • The conference also urged developed nations to take responsibility and support efforts to reduce plastic waste globally.

While plastic remains a vital material in modern industries, experts stress the need for better waste management, recycling initiatives, and alternatives to curb its environmental impact.

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