Plastic waste, particularly stemming from single-use products like plastic bags and various food packaging, remains a persistent issue despite continuous awareness initiatives and regulatory actions. In Dhaka city, a staggering 646 tonnes of plastic waste are generated daily, with a significant portion left unmanaged. The situation is even more dire in district and upazila towns, markets, and municipalities.
The enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics has faced challenges primarily due to the limited availability of alternatives in the market. The National Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management is yet to be effectively implemented, while public awareness on the matter remains inadequate. The absence of a consistent and efficient waste collection and management system further exacerbates the problem in various locations.
Bangladesh ranks among the top 20 nations with mismanaged plastic waste. A study published in the Lancet highlighted the severe and underestimated threat posed by plastics to both human and planetary health, resulting in an estimated global health-related damage cost of at least $1.5 trillion annually. Current global plastic production stands at around 450 million tonnes per year, with only nine percent of plastic waste being recycled, while the majority ends up in landfills and oceans.
Recent United Nations discussions on a plastic treaty in Geneva failed to yield a consensus among representatives from over 183 countries towards a legally binding agreement to address plastic pollution.
Addressing plastic pollution is a complex issue due to the beneficial properties of plastic such as versatility, durability, and affordability that have enhanced modern lifestyles. Instead of solely focusing on eliminating plastic use, the emphasis should be on the effective management of plastic waste.
Single-use plastics like thin bags, wrappers, and disposable containers are often discarded shortly after use, lacking post-consumer value and posing challenges for integration into circular waste management systems. These items frequently end up polluting rivers and oceans. Conversely, plastics with post-consumer value are typically collected and recycled.
The key challenge lies in driving public behavior change by raising awareness about the environmental impact of single-use plastics. This necessitates consistent messaging, social influence, a multi-stakeholder approach, and individual commitment. Media outlets continue to highlight the issue, while national and international NGOs conduct research and awareness campaigns to enhance plastic literacy and advocate for sustainable practices. However, achieving a significant shift in behavior remains a distant goal.
In light of this, Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has urged religious scholars to leverage their influence in increasing public awareness on noise and plastic pollution. Community-based solutions often prove effective in fostering sustainable change. With over 300,000 mosques in Bangladesh serving as central community hubs, religious leaders could utilize their platforms to educate congregations on environmental stewardship and the adverse effects of plastic pollution.
To safeguard the environment and promote healthy living, addressing issues like plastic pollution is imperative. Waiting for global consensus on ending plastic pollution is not a viable option. While inadequate waste management infrastructure poses a significant challenge, public awareness plays a crucial role in mitigating the crisis. Encouraging individuals to reduce their use of thin plastic bags by adopting reusable alternatives and responsibly disposing of plastic waste can make a substantial difference. Blaming others for plastic production and waste generation is not a solution; education, awareness, personal commitment, and collective action are essential.
[Author Name] is a dedicated development professional and advocate for climate action.
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.