Rizwana urges public to switch to cloth and jute bags over polythene

NN Online:
Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Monday emphasized the importance of adopting eco-friendly alternatives like cloth and jute bags to replace single-use polythene bags in daily life.

“Plastic use must be minimized across all aspects of life, and single-use polythene bags must be completely phased out,” she said during a discussion with students and environmental activists at the circuit house in Rajshahi.

She highlighted the severe environmental impact of plastic and polythene, noting that the government has already launched several initiatives to promote sustainable alternatives. However, she stressed that public participation is vital for meaningful progress.

Rizwana also raised concerns about the widespread practice of filling ponds, canals, and other water bodies in the name of urban development. She urged for the protection of these natural water reservoirs to conserve water and maintain groundwater levels.

Encouraging the youth to adopt an environmentally conscious lifestyle, she said, “Every small step we take can lead to big changes.”

The event was attended by Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhtar, BAPA General Secretary Alamgir Kabir, and representatives from environmental organisations, along with students, journalists, and government officials. Participants called for stronger local awareness campaigns to promote environmental protection.

Rizwana instructed the Deputy Commissioner to take steps to restore the district’s ponds and water bodies, assuring full government support for the initiative.