National action plan for plastic

It is disheartening to acknowledge that Pakistan, like many developing countries, is facing an environmental catastrophe due to the lack of policy implementation and action on waste management. The country generates a substantial amount of waste, and the inadequate infrastructure for waste management exacerbates the problem.

Among the primary culprits are single-use polythene bags, which are manufactured and used on a massive scale but irresponsibly dumped in the open environment. Disturbingly, estimates suggest that over 50% of the total waste generated in Pakistan consists of plastics, with approximately 55 billion polythene bags being used each year — an alarming number that continues to rise. The call to impose a strict ban on single-use plastic is not just a suggestion; it is a necessity. Unattended polythene bags not only endanger marine and coastal environments but also contribute to urban flooding during monsoon seasons as they clog storm-water drains. The urgency to act on this cannot be emphasised. Here, government intervention is imperative. The federal, provincial and local authorities must join forces and adopt a comprehensive national action plan to address the irreversible damage caused by plastic waste. The plan should include strict regulations, policies and awareness campaigns targeting both common citizens and stakeholders. Implementation and enforcement of rules regarding waste management should be made top-most priority and strict action should be taken against violators. Additionally, promoting waste recycling, encouraging the reuse of plastic products and opting for biodegradable alternatives are all avenues that should be explored.

However, placing the burden solely on the government is not suitable. The role of the general public and contributing industries is equally vital. It is time for collective efforts to reduce plastic usage, plant more trees, promote green cities and clean up our oceans, rivers and coasts.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 7^th, 2023.

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