In 2002, in a revolutionary move, Bangladesh became the first country to ban thin plastic bags. Needless to say, it failed to achieve any tangible success. More initiatives in the later years also ended with similar results.

Plastic pollution is not solely an urban issue.

We appreciate the environment adviser’s directive to ban the use of polythene and polypropylene bags in all superstores across Bangladesh

Bangladesh, with a population of nearly 170 million, boasts of a vast maritime boundary along the Bay of Bengal. Much like other oceans, the Bay of Bengal is also plagued by unprecedented levels of plastic pollution.

The menace of plastic is everywhere, even in the most remote locations, from the depths of the ocean to Arctic ice. So you can’t expect the Sundarbans to be an exception.

Responsible plastic use involves using it for a long time before it is recycled or discarded.