BRAC University launches net zero and plastic-free campus initiative

BRAC University, in collaboration with BRAC and Bangladesh Sustainability Alliance (BSA), launched a "Net Zero Project and Plastic-Free Zero-Waste Campus" initiative on the university's campus today.

The initiative seeks to transform BRAC University into a zero-waste, plastic-free campus by implementing key interventions, including enhanced recycling programs, eliminating single-use plastics, and promoting sustainable alternatives.
Implementing practical solutions to reduce plastic pollution is the key target of the BSA, a platform formed in November 2023 by entities such as BRAC, Unilever, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, PRAN-RFL Group, and Marico Bangladesh.
In alignment with this platform's initiative, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Dr Md Liakath Ali, Director of Climate Change, Urban Development and Disaster Risk Management Programme, BRAC, and Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor, BRAC University, at today's event.

Addressing the event as chief guest, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, lauded BRAC University's leadership in promoting a culture of sustainability and highlighted the crucial role of educational institutions in driving environmental responsibility. She emphasised the need for changing mindsets and habits and collective action to combat climate change and minimise ecological footprints. 
"BRAC University is committed to reimagining higher education with sustainability at its core," said Tamara Hasan Abed, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of BRAC University, at the event. She emphasised that true excellence came about at BRAC University by nurturing a profound sense of responsibility. Urging to take active steps in caring for the planet, she also stressed the importance of embedding environmental conservation into the core curriculum across all disciplines, as it is not just a concern for ecological studies but a shared responsibility.

Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, chairing the event, highlighted the university's proactive sustainability measures, emphasising its commitment to waste reduction, responsible resource management, and integrating environmentally friendly practices in campus operations. He reaffirmed BRAC University's dedication to promoting sustainable development through education, research, and action-oriented initiatives. He also emphasised that BRAC University aspires to lead the Global South in sustainability practices, and these initiatives would position the university as a pioneer in fostering environmentally responsible solutions and driving meaningful change across the region. 

Dr. David Dowland, Registrar of BRAC University, gave the opening remarks, and Sankalita Shome, Chief Coordinator of BSA, gave a speech on "Together Towards a Zero-Waste Campus."
The event also saw the awarding of seed funding for the pitch contest "Zero-Waste University Challenge" run by the Social Impact Lab of BRAC University for students to design and implement sustainability-driven projects contributing to the Net Zero Project.

Afterwards, the event attendees went around viewing poster presentations by students of different schools and colleges, who gave insights into a zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and showcased eco-friendly products that substituted for plastic products.
The poster presentations resulted from awareness sessions on responsible consumption, waste reduction, and segregation earlier at different educational institutions, which the BSA and BRAC University Outreach Programme ran.