Clean-up drive and discussion on plastic use held in Char Fasson

An integrated clean-up campaign and discussion on sustainable use of plastic products was held in Char Fasson Upazila.

The programme was organised by the Department of Environment with technical support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and funding from the Government of Norway, says a press release.

The event took place at the Upazila Parishad auditorium in Char Fasson.

A discussion session was held on environmental protection, plastic pollution and waste management practices.

Speakers highlighted the need for public awareness, coordinated efforts and community participation to reduce plastic use.

More than 500 volunteers took part in the programme, including students, Rover Scouts, BNCC members, Red Crescent volunteers, BD Clean members and representatives from the Youth Network Forum.

The programme was attended by Nurun Nahar, director general (acting) of the Department of Environment, as chief guest.

Muhammad Muzahidul Islam, divisional director (Barishal); Abdullah Al Mamun, project director; Dilruba Akter, deputy director; and Emadul Hossain, officer-in-charge and acting upazila nirbahi officer attended as special guests.

S. M. Arafat, national expert from UNIDO Bangladesh, and other officials were also present.

The programme was chaired by Md. Mizanur Rahman, deputy director of the Local Government Division.

Abdullah Al Mamun thanked participants and said collective action is needed to ensure sustainable use of plastic.

S. M. Arafat said plastic pollution is a global challenge and stressed proper waste disposal, reuse and recycling.

Dilruba Akter highlighted the need to reduce single-use plastics and promote reuse practices.

Muhammad Muzahidul Islam said increasing plastic use contributes to environmental and health risks.

Nurun Nahar called for stronger awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.

Md. Mizanur Rahman emphasised the role of students and communities in promoting responsible waste management.

After the discussion, participants took part in a clean-up campaign.

Around 3,051.04 kilograms of plastic waste were collected from areas around the Upazila Parishad and Betua Launch Terminal.

Organisers said the initiative aimed to raise awareness and support sustainable waste management in the area.