The Department of Environment (DoE) has distributed alternatives to plastic bags, removed plastic waste and conducted an anti-plastic awareness campaign at Khilgaon Taltola Kitchen Market in the capital.

The UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) provided technical support for the initiative held on Wednesday, the Norwegian Embassy extended financial support, says a press release.

This event aimed to increase awareness among local communities and market stakeholders about the harmful impacts of single-use plastics (SUP) and to encourage sustainable alternatives.

Key speakers at the awareness raising discussion session included Dr Abdul Hamid, director general of the Department of Environment; SM Arafat, national expert at UNIDO, the president of the Kitchen Market Committee, and representatives from BD Clean and local communities.

Dr Abdul Hamid, director general of the Department of Environment, said, “Single-use plastics contribute to pollution and create microplastics, which infiltrate ecosystems and harm public health. Today’s initiative is just one step in a series of ongoing efforts to reduce plastic waste in Bangladesh. Together, we can create a healthier future by supporting sustainable practices and making more conscious choices.”

SM Arafat emphasised the importance of reducing single-use plastics, stating, “We need to shift towards the 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' model to address plastic waste effectively. By minimising the use of single-use plastics and opting for reusable options, we not only reduce waste but also enable recyclers to collect and process materials properly. It’s a collective effort that starts with responsible choices.”

The campaign included hands-on activities such as distributing alternatives to plastic bags, installing bins, and placing permanent notice boards to encourage market visitors and vendors to dispose of plastic responsibly. BD Clean, alongside Garbageman, actively participated in cleanup efforts, helping collect plastic waste from the market area.

This initiative is part of the "Integrated Approach Towards Sustainable Plastic Use and Marine Litter Prevention in Bangladesh" project, which emphasises consumer awareness and community action. Building upon the success of previous efforts, including 14 cleanup campaigns across schools, kitchen markets and fishing communities, the event further encouraged local stakeholders to foster long-term sustainable practices.