ED: Time to ditch single-use plastics

In a commendable move, the Canadian government has decided to ban the use of single-use plastics by the end of 2021 -- a necessary step in this age of mass consumption and spiraling environmental pollution.

Bangladesh would be wise to follow suit. 

In fact, back in 2002, the government had banned plastic production and the sale of polythene bags, but its implementation was short-lived -- polythene bags are now being used again in general stores across the country.

It is tragic that the rule was not strictly monitored and implemented at the time -- a failure on part of law enforcement and a lack of awareness amongst the public being the likely causes. As a nation which continuously suffers due the negative impacts of climate change, it is up to us to become the change we wish to see in the world.

But what’s done is done. There is no reason, though, that Bangladesh cannot reinvigorate its fight against environmental damage and catastrophe and once again take the lead in this regard and not leave it all up to developed nations.

We know the way by now. A move away from plastic and towards biodegradable options such as jute should be promoted by the government on all fronts and pave the pathway for a more sustainable model of nation-building.

Such a move will not only protect the environment, but also help us economically, creating sustainable industries which provide millions of people with jobs and opportunities for export.

The continuous use of plastic in our daily lives is an environmental disaster waiting to happen. Let us not wait any longer before we act.