BAN ON POLYTHENE

The government has decided to ban manufacture and use of polythene bags in the capital city from January 1 next year, considering their adverse impact on the environment.

"Manufacture and use of polythene-made shopping bags will be banned initially in Dhaka city and then across the country in phases. In the second phase, the ban will be imposed in other major cities," said Forest and Environment Minister Shahjahan Siraj.

The minister said the government is very much concerned over degradation of environment in the country and will take necessary steps immediately to eliminate air pollution, noise pollution and lead pollution. It will effectively deal with issues like proper disposal of industrial wastes, indiscriminate setting up of brick fields and saving the Buriganga and other rivers from illegal encroachments, he added.

Shahjahan Siraj said the government has decided to begin the process by banning use and manufacture of polythene bags. If necessary, laws would be amended for protecting the people from environmental hazards.

He mentioned that the Ministry of Forest and Environment has already discussed with the ministries of Jute and Textile and NGOs to find out alternatives of polythene shopping bags. The environment secretary has been asked to look into the matter on an urgent basis.

The minister pointed out that there could be temporary problems due to the ban. "We are also thinking of importing of bags made of paper and cloth on a temporary basis till domestic jute and textile industries can ensure adequate supply of bags."

Regarding unemployment of people now working in polythene factories, he said steps will be taken to absorb them in jute and textile sectors.