Ways to overcome plastic pollution

While polyethylene and plastics are widely used in modern life, they pose a severe threat to the environment. Due to the widespread use and mismanagement of plastic, soil, water, and air pollution are escalating, and biodiversity is also at risk. A recent survey by the World Bank revealed that 25 per cent of plastic in Bangladesh remains unchanged, meaning it is not recycled, and eventually ends up in the sea. As a result, nearly 207,685 tons of plastic flow into the sea every year. The indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste causes waterlogging during the rainy season and reduces the capacity of rivers and canals.

In addition to the environment, plastic has long-term and hazardous effects on human health. The toxic chemicals used in the production of plastic, when they come into contact with food or water, gradually mix with the food chain. These chemicals can cause cancer, hormonal imbalances, and reproductive problems in humans. When plastic is burned, it releases various harmful gases, which increase the risk of respiratory inflammation, asthma, and lung cancer. Plastic gradually breaks down into tiny microplastics, which enter the human body through food and water. Microplastics can cause intestinal damage, blood inflammation, and long-term poisoning. Plastic waste in rivers, canals, and oceans poisons aquatic animals and plants. When humans consume these contaminated aquatic organisms, they pose a serious health risk. Toxic substances leached from plastic toys, packaged foods, or water bottles have harmful effects on the nervous system and brain development of children.

Polyethylene does not easily mix with the soil. It forms a layer on the surface of the soil, which prevents the soil from breathing naturally. The presence of polyethylene hinders the growth of beneficial microorganisms and insects in the soil, reducing its fertility. Due to the accumulation of polyethylene, water stagnates in the soil, causing crop damage and waterlogging. The chemicals used in the production of polyethylene mix with the soil, degrading its quality. Polyethylene particles are carried away by rainwater into rivers, lakes, and oceans, contaminating water bodies. Aquatic animals mistake polyethylene for food, causing them to experience breathing difficulties and eventually die. Polyethylene releases various chemicals into the water, which deteriorates water quality and makes it undrinkable for humans.

Considering the harmful effects of polyethylene, the Government of Bangladesh banned the production, import, marketing, sale, display, stocking, transportation, and use of polyethylene shopping bags in 2002.

Under the leadership of Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, the ministry has initiated various activities to combat polyethylene pollution. The government has declared a zero-tolerance policy against the production of polyethylene. From October 1, the ban on polyethylene shopping bags in supershops, and from November 1, the nationwide ban, including in local markets, has been enforced. Since November 3, 2024, a total of 198 mobile court operations have been carried out across Bangladesh for the production, sale, supply, and marketing of banned polyethylene. A fine of 2.57 million Bangladeshi Taka has been imposed on 413 businesses, and approximately 50,552 kilograms of banned polyethylene have been seized. Additionally, the utility services of four polyethylene production factories, including gas, electricity, and water connections, have been disconnected, and the factories have been sealed.

Awareness programs against polyethylene and polypropylene shopping bags have already been implemented. A high-level monitoring committee has been formed for market monitoring. This committee is regularly carrying out market monitoring activities. Awareness events have been organized in markets across Dhaka city, including cleanup programs and the distribution of alternatives.

In violation of environmental laws, mobile courts are regularly imposing fines on individuals involved in the illegal production, transportation, sale, and storage of polyethylene shopping bags, while seizing illegal polyethylene products and shutting down factories.

To increase the production of polyethylene alternatives, such as the golden bag, a project has been initiated through the Climate Trust Fund. Additionally, a separate committee has been formed, involving relevant stakeholders, to promote the use of biodegradable packaging and tackle the associated challenges. With support from the World Bank, a 10-year action plan has been developed for the management of all plastic waste, including polyethylene. So far, hotspots of river pollution caused by plastic waste in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Cox's Bazar have been identified, and efforts will soon be made to remove the waste and implement appropriate environmental management practices.

To increase the production of polyethylene alternatives, such as the golden bag Jute bags), a project has been initiated through the Climate Trust Fund. Additionally, a separate committee has been formed, involving relevant stakeholders, to promote the use of biodegradable packaging and tackle the associated challenges. With support from the World Bank, a 10-year action plan has been developed for the management of all plastic waste, including polyethylene. So far, hotspots of river pollution caused by plastic waste in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Cox's Bazar have been identified, and efforts will soon be made to remove the waste and implement appropriate environmental management practices.

In accordance with the High Court's directive, the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change has implemented a three-year special program to ban single-use plastic products. As per the High Court’s instructions, activities are underway to gradually phase out various single-use plastic items at sea beaches, as well as at hotels and motels located near the beaches. It is expected that, for the first time in the country, under the Environmental Protection Regulations (EPR), local government departments, along with various domestic and international brand owners, will participate in financing and overall implementation of waste management initiatives. The Honorable High Court has directed necessary measures to be taken for the banning of single-use plastics and polyethylene shopping bags in coastal areas and across the country.

Bags, baskets, or other products made from bamboo and cane are environmentally friendly and durable. They are used for transporting agricultural products and decoration. Biodegradable plastics made from cornstarch or corn flour could be an effective alternative to polyethylene. These plastics decompose quickly and do not harm the environment. Products made from coconut shells or rice husks can be used for packaging and as bags. These materials easily decompose in the soil. While there are challenges to increasing the use of alternative products, such as a lack of awareness, higher costs, and limited availability, these can be overcome through awareness campaigns, policy implementation, and technological advancements to make these products more popular.

Investing in research and development for sustainable alternatives to polyethylene should be prioritized. If the government, industry sectors, and the public work together, it will be possible to develop sustainable technology as an alternative to polyethylene. Adequate funds need to be allocated for the development of new technologies. The development of sustainable alternatives to polyethylene is a complex process, but it is a crucial investment for future generations. Additionally, the scope of the law should be expanded to increase fines and penalties for the use of polyethylene, ensuring strict punishment for offenders. Law enforcement agencies should be encouraged to take strict actions against those using polyethylene. Measures should be taken against polyethylene manufacturers and sellers to remove polyethylene from the market.

To successfully raise public awareness about preventing polyethylene pollution, everyone must work together. If the public is educated through government, private, and individual initiatives, a clean and healthy environment can be ensured. Reducing the use of polyethylene will reduce environmental pollution. By using alternatives to polyethylene, we can protect our health. Therefore, we must start cultivating the habit of using alternatives to polyethylene today. If the harmful effects of polyethylene are communicated to the public and people are encouraged to use alternatives in their daily lives, it will play an effective role in solving this issue.

Dipankar Bar: Deputy Principal Information Officer, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.