
A look at the first country to ban single-use plastic bags
Abraar Arpon
Bangladesh, once celebrated for being the first country to ban single-use plastic bag back in 2002, finds itself today in a battle against the persisting menace of plastic pollution. Despite its early lead, the nation's capital and many of its picturesque landscapes are marred by discarded plastic, raising questions about policy enforcement, public awareness, and transboundary challenges.
Where It all began :
Bangladesh's landmark decision in 2002 sought to curb the environmental impact of polythene bags. This move made international headlines, painting Bangladesh as a beacon of environmental reform. However, fast forward to today, and these banned items remain a common sight in local markets, alleys, and rivers.
The Rising Tide of Plastic Consumption
A recent report by the World Bank Group paints a concerning picture: the annual per capita plastic consumption in Bangladesh's urban regions has skyrocketed, tripling to 9.0 kg in 2020 from 3.0 kg in just 2005. The repercussions are evident – cities and villages alike are plagued by plastic waste that clogs drains, posing severe threats to infrastructure and the environment.
Government's Stance: Good on Paper, Ineffective on Ground?
The Bangladeshi government has not been passive. Various laws, rules, and roadmaps, including the Solid Waste Management Rules of 2021, were framed. Additionally, 2021 saw the adoption of a plan aiming to liberate specific coastal regions from the grips of single-use plastic. Yet, many locals feel the difference is barely noticeable. The underlying issue? Implementation, or the lack thereof.
Transboundary Troubles
Beyond domestic challenges, Bangladesh faces an added complication — transboundary plastic pollution. An eye-opening study from the Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) highlighted that 18 transboundary rivers in Bangladesh carry a staggering 15,345 tonnes of single-use plastic waste daily, with significant contributions from neighboring India and Myanmar.
A United Call for Change :
Environmentalists, experts, and even industry leaders are now rallying for a stringent nationwide ban on single-use plastic, underscored by aggressive enforcement. Saber Hossain Chowdhury, chairman of the Standing Committee on the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, recently emphasized the pressing need to curtail plastic use, stating its significant contribution to climate change.
The Way Forward :
Bangladesh's journey from a groundbreaking ban to its current struggles offers a cautionary tale for the world. Effective change requires more than policies on paper; it demands rigorous implementation, continuous public engagement, and international collaboration.
As global leaders discuss potential solutions at forums like the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee in Paris, the onus is not just on Bangladesh but the entire world to turn the tide against plastic pollution. For Bangladesh, the journey ahead is both a challenge and an opportunity to reclaim its status as an environmental leader.