Mountaineer Shakil joins UNDP as youth advocate for plastic pollution

Bangladeshi mountaineer Ikramul Hasan Shakil has joined the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as a Youth Advocate for Plastic Pollution under a joint initiative with The Coca-Cola Foundation called TCCF Plastics Circularity Project.

In this role, he will lead efforts to raise awareness about plastic pollution and promote sustainable solutions to protect the planet.

Shakil is set to embark on a historic sea-to-summit expedition, attempting to become the youngest person to climb Mount Everest on foot from sea level, a challenge that could earn him a Guinness World Record. It aims to highlight environmental conservation, reduce carbon emissions, and demonstrate that ambitious goals can be achieved sustainably. By walking 1,300 kilometres from Cox's Bazar to Everest Base Camp and summiting Mount Everest, Shakil hopes to prove that extreme adventures can be undertaken with minimal environmental impact.

 "This expedition is more than just a record attempt; it's a mission to highlight the urgent need for action against plastic pollution," said Shakil. "By travelling from the Bay of Bengal to the world's highest peak, I hope to inspire individuals and communities to rethink their use of plastic and protect our environment."

 UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller emphasised the significance of tackling plastic pollution: "Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time, endangering biodiversity, polluting our oceans, and affecting millions of people's livelihoods. Urgent action and greater awareness are crucial to tackling this crisis. I hope Shakil's expedition will inspire people to reduce single-use plastic and embrace sustainable practices. Wishing him success in setting a new Guinness World Record."

 Shakil, who became the first Bangladeshi to complete Nepal's 1,700 km Great Himalaya Trail, will collect plastic waste along his route, showcasing the devastating impact of pollution on natural ecosystems, tourism, and mountain communities.
 As a Youth Advocate, his journey will highlight UNDP's commitment to fighting plastic pollution and promoting sustainable solutions that protect both people and the planet.