Rizwana calls for a plastic-free mindset to tackle pollution
She stressed that plastic pollution is affecting not only rivers but also agriculture
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today (17 February) urged the country's universities to take meaningful steps toward eliminating plastic waste and setting up an example for other institutions.
"Once BRAC University finaliaes its action plan for a plastic-free campus, I would invite other private universities to learn from the initiative, fostering a responsible future generation," she said while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of "Plastic-Free Zero-Waste Campus: Green Pledge" at BRAC University.
Highlighting the severe impact of plastic pollution, she pointed out that microplastics have infiltrated human organs, including kidneys, livers, and even brains.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
"Research suggests that microplastics in the brain may obstruct blood flow, posing severe health risks. While scientists are still studying the full impact, it is clear that this is not good news."
She also shed light on Bangladesh's alarming plastic consumption, stating, "We produce two crore plastic shopping bags daily. The Buriganga River, for example, has thick layers of polythene on its bed, making even dredging difficult and costly."
She stressed that plastic pollution is affecting not only rivers but also agriculture, with farmers finding plastic waste in their fields due to poor waste management.
Calling for a shift in mindset, she questioned why people hesitate to give up plastic bags when their ancestors managed without them.
"Every time you go shopping, carry your own bag. Jute bags are readily available—why not use them?" she urged.
While acknowledging the role of recycling, she warned that it is not a simple solution. "Developed countries have better recycling facilities, yet they prioritize alternatives because recycling is energy-intensive and involves harmful chemicals. Our focus should be on reducing plastic use, not just recycling it."
She also emphasised the need for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), ensuring that manufacturers take responsibility for collecting and recycling their plastic waste.
"Bangladesh is finalising its EPR directive soon, making large companies accountable for their waste," she added.
