A concerted effort is needed to stem the spread of plastic bags across the country.
The Department of Environment reports a growing number of non-bio-degradable polythene bags accumulating in sewers and rivers. Discarded plastic bags clog up drainage systems and cause stagnation, choking life within vital water bodies.
It is highly concerning that over a decade after Bangladesh became a pioneer in banning plastic bags in 2002, that they have once again become a common sight in shops and markets.
Reports indicate there is very little public awareness of the ban, and even when businesses are aware, they use them because of their low-production cost compared to more environment-friendly options.
The government must take more responsibility for enforcing the ban. Occasional high profile drives have proven to be ineffective. A major public awareness campaign is needed to remind the public of the harmful effects on the environment of plastic bags and to ask everyone to respect the ban.
With shopping levels peaking through Ramadan, now is the best time for all consumers to be encouraged to take more responsibility. If more shoppers refused plastic bags by bringing reusable bags or purchasing environment-friendly alternatives, fewer retailers would stock them.
Everyone can play a part in reducing the demand and supply of non-bio-degradable plastic bags. Large stores and businesses can take a lead in raising awareness by encouraging use of environment-friendly options.
As well as reducing demand by enforcing the ban properly, the government can also mitigate the negative impacts of plastic bags by obliging city corporations to improve recycling services and help break the cycle of bags used for shopping being eventually discarded into rivers.
