Pragga Das

The world is heading towards a time when climate crises and environmental disasters pose a major threat to our existence. Global warming, climate change, and environmental devastation are not only destroying the beauty and balance of nature, but plastic pollution has also become a severe threat to water, land, and human civilization across the globe. Rivers, seas, and oceans are now overwhelmed by the toxic shadow of plastic. This crisis is especially critical in regions like South Asia, which are riverine, where plastic waste is crossing borders and causing environmental harm to neighboring countries. Almost every country in the world is fighting against plastic pollution, but no single nation is capable of handling this massive crisis alone. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that we tackle this issue regionally to address its true roots. In such a crucial moment, Bangladesh's diplomatic leadership holds significant importance.Recently, at the regional roundtable meeting titled "Plastic Free Rivers and Sea: A Vision for South Asia" in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh has called for a unified resistance, which is not only an environmental issue but has become a part of regional security and diplomacy. Various South Asian nations participated in the meeting, all of which are directly or indirectly affected by plastic pollution. Discussions were held on how individual countries are struggling to address this issue and how it is increasingly difficult to resolve it alone. Additionally, the need for regional cooperation and collective action in solving this devastating problem was emphasized.The message Bangladesh delivered at the meeting was not just a political statement but a strong call for environmental diplomacy. Bangladesh proposed the creation of a regional framework to combat plastic pollution, focusing on technological innovation, legal frameworks, and investment structures. In this regard, the Bangladeshi representatives at the conference emphasized that without a regional collective data repository and tracking system, no effective steps can be taken to prevent plastic pollution. Bangladesh believes it is unreasonable to expect a comprehensive plan from a single country because the impact of plastic pollution transcends national and border limits, making it both a global and regional problem.While many countries worldwide remain hesitant about imposing bans or restrictions on plastic use, if South Asian nations come together, it would send a powerful message to the world. Especially with Bangladesh’s proposed plan, which not only aims to address regional environmental pollution but could also assist in the creation of a robust environmental-financial framework. Through principles like "circular economy" and producer responsibility, Bangladesh strongly believes that plastic pollution can be tackled in this region, and a well-organized system can be developed. As a result, plastic pollution will be controlled, and countries will move forward.Bangladesh's proposed regional action plan includes limitations on plastic production, promotion of eco-friendly technologies, and active industrial participation in waste management. Moreover, in alignment with the global plastic treaty, context-specific provisions and integrated policy development will be implemented. This will not only serve regional interests but will also help create a new perspective in combating plastic pollution worldwide. The message heard at the Colombo conference from Bangladesh was not just part of environmental diplomacy but a deep visionary effort. Plastic management is now being considered not just as an environmental issue but as a political, diplomatic, and regional security concern. Bangladesh’s call will show the world a new direction for environmental diplomacy, where responsibility and cooperation, rather than national interests, become the cornerstone of leadership. The Colombo conference was a beacon of hope, where Bangladesh not only established itself as a local environmental leader but also proposed a strong environmental diplomatic framework for the region. This has shown a new direction in tackling the severe problem of plastic pollution. The unity and collective effort that Bangladesh has called for will not only benefit the region but will also set an example for the world if successful. Now, we must see whether these plans turn into real-world actions. If they do, South Asia will not only become plastic-free but will also be established as a model of environmental diplomatic success for the world. This will not only free individual countries but the entire South Asian region from the grip of plastic pollution and protect the environment as a whole.

The writer is a student of the department of Economics of Eden Mohila College.