The world may be focused on the Covid-19 pandemic, but that does not mean the other threats to the planet have gone away. A recent study conducted by International Solid Waste Association shows that we may be faced with a very serious plastic problem.
Naturally, in this time, single-use plastic consumption has increased. Face-masks and latex gloves are being used all over the country, and indeed the world. These products are washing up on beaches. An unmanageable amount of waste is also being generated by takeaway food containers as well as delivery packaging. The study estimates that unless measures are taken to drastically reduce plastic pollution, the amount could triple in the next 20 years.
This would be an ecological disaster, and quite the opposite of what we have been trying to achieve for the past few years by weaning ourselves from plastic. This newspaper, in fact, has editorialized numerous times on the need for sustainable and biodegradable alternatives. It would be a shame to backtrack on the progress that has been made.
To that end, we need to invest in not only alternative materials, but also in recycling facilities, and waste collection facilities. In Dhaka, there is still a long way to go in that regard. Our waste management system is poor, and we are yet to make any progress on the recycling front, with all household waste being put through the same channel.
The waste collection problem has, in turn, caused untold suffering to the dwellers of our urban areas -- it is well known that plastic is one of the main culprits behind clogged drainage lines, contributing to devastating amounts of waterlogging. We have passively accepted this situation for too long. No more.