Unilever Bangladesh, Ctg City Corporation and YPSA host ‘Youth Champions of the Environment 2025’

Unilever Bangladesh Limited, in partnership with YPSA and Chattogram City Corporation, organised the Youth Champions of the Environment 2025 in Chattogram.

The event was attended by 200 young participants committed to environmental sustainability and responsible waste management.

Chattogram faces growing environmental pressure, especially from plastic waste and limited waste management systems. To help address these issues, Unilever Bangladesh, Chattogram City Corporation and YPSA have been implementing a value-chain-based plastic waste management model since 2022. More than 30,000 tonnes of plastic waste have been collected and recycled under this initiative.

This year's participants were selected from 410 trained volunteers and applicants, including youth from all 41 wards, youth journalists, and students from university and college environmental clubs.

The event featured sessions on youth leadership, digital innovation and sustainable practices. It also created space for learning and collaboration.

The programme was attended by Mohammad Ashraful Amin, Deputy Secretary of Government of Bangladesh and Secretary of Chattogram City Corporation, as Chief Guest; Captain Ikhtiar Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Chief Waste Management Officer; Shamima Akhter, Director – Corporate Affairs, Partnerships and Communications, Unilever Bangladesh Limited; and Md. Arifur Rahman, Founder and Chief Executive, YPSA.

Mohammad Ashraful Amin said: "Plastic waste management is a key priority for the sustainable development of Chattogram. The active involvement of youth brings fresh perspectives and strengthens community engagement, which are essential for long-term environmental improvement."

Captain Ikhtiar Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury said: "Young leaders play an important role in shaping environmentally responsible communities. Their dedication and enthusiasm give us hope for a more sustainable future."

Shamima Akhter said: "Young people have the passion and creativity needed to address environmental challenges. Unilever Bangladesh is committed to supporting their leadership and helping them create positive change in their communities."

Md. Arifur Rahman said: "Youth have always demonstrated strong potential in developing solutions for environmental issues. This initiative provides them with the platform and guidance needed to transform their ideas into action."

The Youth Champions of the Environment 2025 reflects Unilever Bangladesh's commitment to sustainability and youth engagement. The programme aims to build long-term capacity for a cleaner and more resilient Chattogram.