Clean-up campaign held at Taltola Market, Agargaon in Dhaka aiming to raise awareness among local communities and market stakeholders to reduce the usage of single-use plastics (SUP), and promoting sustainable plastics use.
Department of Environment (DoE) on Thursday (October 17) structured the initiative with the technical support from United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and financial support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy, Dhaka, Bangladesh arranged the program.
As part of the Integrated Approach towards Sustainable Plastic Use and Marine Litter Prevention in Bangladesh project, this initiative falls under Component 2, focusing on consumer awareness and action. Building upon the success of previous efforts, including 11 cleanup events across various communities like schools and marine fishing groups, this campaign took a step further in engaging local stakeholders.
UNIDO country representative Dr. Zaki Uz Zaman emphasized the importance of promoting sustainable plastic usage, expressing UNIDO's support for the government's efforts.
He said, “While the DoE leads initiatives like this, UNIDO is here to provide technical support and guidance. However, it ultimately depends on the community to take proactive measures. Collective community action is essential to ensuring the success of these efforts and achieving long-term environmental sustainability.”
He called on the local community to actively participate and make impactful changes in plastic usage practices.
DoE Director General Dr Abdul Hamid urged people to be mindful of their actions and work together towards a cleaner environment.
“Careless disposal of plastic bags, such as throwing them out of vehicles, significantly contributes to plastic pollution. When these bags break down, they form microplastics that pollute our environment and eventually enter our respiratory systems, posing serious health risks,” he added.
During the event, UNIDO and DoE distributed alternative materials to replace polythene bags and launched the installation of bins and permanent notice boards for collecting existing polythene packaging from the market. BD Clean also participated in the clean-up efforts, assisting in removing and collecting existing plastics from the area.
UNIDO and the Norwegian government remain committed to support the DoE and local communities in their fight against plastic pollution, ensuring a cleaner and greener Bangladesh.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
