Rizwana calls for using alternatives to polythene shopping bags

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has urged the public to adopt alternatives to polythene shopping bags, highlighting the urgent need to stop its usage to protect the environment.

She called on shoppers, sellers, and the general people to comply with the government’s decision to introduce alternative shopping bags in superstores, effective from October 1.

Speaking at the inauguration of the programme for the use of alternative bags at Agora and Meena Bazar superstores in the capital on Tuesday, Rizwana emphasised that the campaign is solely focused on eliminating polythene shopping bags.

She said starting from October 1, no one will be allowed to bring or receive polythene shopping bags from markets. The next step will be to ban single-use plastics, she added.

She stressed that achieving this goal will require cooperation from the public, businesses, and all stakeholders.

Rizwana also noted that superstores are voluntarily implementing this initiative and offering alternative solutions.

Discussions with the Ministry of Jute have taken place, with actions against polythene production set to begin in November.

She further emphasised the need to raise awareness among both buyers and sellers.

The event was attended by the Secretary and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, the Director General of the Department of Environment, leaders of the Bangladesh Jute Mills Association, and representatives from the Superstore Owners Association.

All participants pledged their support to the government’s initiative.

During the visit, Rizwana Hasan interacted with customers, sellers, and students, promoting the use of environmentally-friendly alternatives.