Seminar and Clean-up Campaign Held in Barguna to Promote Sustainable Plastic Use and Marine Litter Prevention

As plastic pollution continues to pose a growing environmental and public health challenge across Bangladesh, the Department of Environment (DoE) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), with financial support from the Government of Norway, jointly organised a seminar and community clean-up campaign titled “Integrated Actions for Sustainable Plastic Use and Marine Litter Prevention.” The event took place on 10 December 2025 at the Barguna Municipality Auditorium, bringing together more than 300 participants, including government officials, civil society representatives, environmental groups, business leaders, and volunteers.

The programme was attended by Mr. Md. Ibrahim, Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime), Barguna, as Chief Guest. Special Guests included Mr. Md. Rafiqul Islam, Executive Officer (Secretary), Barguna Municipality; Mr. S. M. Arafat, National Expert, UNIDO Bangladesh; Mr. Hayat Mahmud Rokib, Assistant Director, DoE Barguna; Dr. Arunava Chowdhury, Upazila Health & Family Planning Officer; Mr. Mushfiq Arif, Member Secretary of Dhoritri Rokkhay Amra (Dhara); Mr. Naim, Coordinator, BD Clean Barguna; Mr. Shafiqul Islam Tipu, President, Mizan Tower and Mosque Market Business Association; and Mr. Moniruzzaman Taslim, President, Municipal Super Market Business Association. The event was moderated by Mr. Mushfiq Arif, Member Secretary of Dhara.

In his welcome remarks, Mr. S. M. Arafat, National Expert, UNIDO Bangladesh, emphasised that plastic pollution has evolved from a national challenge into a global crisis. He highlighted that countries worldwide are moving toward a legally binding international treaty on plastic management. He noted that improper disposal of daily-use plastics is contributing to environmental degradation, blocking drainage systems, polluting rivers, and entering the ocean—ultimately harming marine ecosystems and public health.

He outlined three key steps to reduce plastic pollution: Dispose of all types of waste in designated places; Separate plastic waste using specific bins; Reduce single-use plastics and encourage reusable, recyclable alternatives. Speaking at the event, Mr. Hayat Mahmud Rokib, Assistant Director, DoE Barguna, stressed the importance of individual and community responsibility. He noted that Bangladesh uses approximately 410,000 metric tons of plastic annually, much of which remains unmanaged. He urged increased public awareness and the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives.

Dr. Arunava Chowdhury highlighted the need to shift personal habits and prioritise environmentally responsible choices, noting that sustainable plastic use is achievable through collaboration.

Mr. Md. Rafiqul Islam, Executive Officer of Barguna Municipality, underscored the importance of civic responsibility, acknowledging the work of the municipality’s 180 sanitation workers who clean the city every day. He called for additional waste bins and strengthened waste management systems with support from the district administration and development partners.

As Chief Guest, Mr. Md. Ibrahim emphasised that meaningful progress in reducing plastic pollution requires a change in mindset. He noted that people often follow strict cleanliness rules abroad and encouraged similar behaviour at home. He also urged youth to develop affordable, environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic.

At the conclusion of the seminar, all participants took a pledge to promote sustainable plastic use, proper waste management, and environmental protection. A large-scale community clean-up campaign was then conducted in 7 No Ward, Borgun Lanchghat, Kheyaghat, Tempu Stand  area of Barguna town, where participants collected approximately 312.15 kilograms of plastic waste. The collected materials were handed over to authorized recycling agencies for reprocessing.

Following the cleanup, local youth groups, civil society organisations, and community volunteers will continue a three-month door-to-door advocacy campaign across Barguna. This extended mobilisation aims to reinforce responsible plastic use, encourage proper waste disposal, and strengthen long-term community-led stewardship of the environment.