UNDP will introduce jute-polymer bags to increase awareness of plastic pollution

For the UN staff members in Bangladesh, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has introduced jute-polymer-based biodegradable, eco-friendly bags created by Bangladeshi scientist Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan in honor of World Environment Day 2023.

"Sonali Bag" is another name for the purse.

Stefan Liller, the UNDP's resident representative in the country, said that as UN organizations, it is our duty to promote sustainable practices.

Stefan continued, "We hope to set an example for others to follow by encouraging UN staff to use biodegradable alternatives to plastic bags.

According to the UNDP, the theme for this year's World Environment Day on June 5 is to investigate ways to combat plastic pollution under the hashtag #BeatPlasticPollution.

A biodegradable polymer made from jute fiber was successfully created in 2017 by eminent scientist Dr. Mubarak Ahmed Khan, the scientific adviser to Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation and the former Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Director General of Atomic Energy Research.

Due to its environmental friendliness, the Sonali bag gained popularity all over the world after the trial.

"Jute polybag or Sonali bag from jute cellulose has come far after the invention," said Dr. Mubarak. "We are currently investigating and researching other applications for this polymer."

"We must act immediately to stop the use of single-use plastic, as the world has now reached a tipping point. We might be able to envision the future if we take action now. There won't be a future if we don't. I am pleased that UNDP has taken the initiative on this Environment Day to not only raise awareness about plastic pollution but also to provide an alternative, Dr. Mubarak continued.

Under the resolution titled "End plastic pollution: Towards an International legally binding instrument," UN Member States are required to wrap up the negotiation of a global agreement to end plastic pollution by the end of 2024.