Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the country’s adviser on the environment, forests, and climate change, called on the nation’s universities to take significant action to eradicate plastic trash and serve as a model for other educational institutions. “Once BRAC University finalises 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 told the inaugural ceremony of “Plastic-Free Zero-Waste Campus: Green Pledge” at BRAC University here.
Highlighting the severe impacts of plastic pollution, Rizwana pointed out that micro-plastics have infiltrated human organs, including kidneys, livers, and even brains.
“Research suggests that micro-plastics 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 said.
“We produce two crore plastic shopping bags daily,” the environment adviser said, highlighting Bangladesh’s concerning plastic usage.
She added that plastic pollution is harming not only waterways but also farmland, with farmers discovering plastic garbage in their fields as a result of inadequate waste management. For instance, the Buriganga River has thick layers of polythene on its bed, making even dredging challenging and expensive.
She urged a change of perspective and asked why people are reluctant to abandon plastic bags when their forebears survived without them.
“Every time you go shopping, carry your own bag. Jute bags are readily available-why not use them?” she questioned.
While acknowledging the role of recycling, she warned that it is not a simple solution. “Developed countries have better recycling facilities, yet they prioritise 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 finalizing its EPR directive soon, making large companies accountable for their waste.”
Inspiring students and staff to take action toward a cleaner, greener future, the event at BRAC University was a major milestone in Bangladesh’s battle against plastic pollution.
Speaking at the event were Dr. Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, and Tamara Abed, Chairman of the Board of Trusties.
Afterwards, Advisor Rizwana went to exhibit booths that featured materials other than plastic. Additionally, she presented certificates to the students who had won.
*
Email *
Website
