Environment Minister Urges Strict Law Enforcement to End Polythene Use

Public awareness and strict legal enforcement are essential to curb environmental pollution caused by illegal polythene, emphasized Sheikh Faridul Islam, State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Speaking during an awareness drive at Mohammadpur Krishi Market in Dhaka on Monday, 27 July 2026, the state minister highlighted the urgent need to phase out banned polythene bags. During his visit, he engaged directly with traders, shoppers, and local residents, advocating for eco-friendly alternatives.

The minister noted that the Prime Minister has issued clear directives to stop the use of single-use polythene. While legislation prohibiting thin polythene is already in force, ensuring strict compliance on the ground remains paramount. Government authorities are currently prioritizing public motivation to encourage voluntary compliance. However, if individuals and traders fail to phase out polythene, the government will resort to stern legal action.

Highlighting the environmental hazards, the state minister pointed out that banned polythene severely damages soil, water, air, and biodiversity. It is also a primary contributor to urban waterlogging, as discarded plastic blocks drainage networks across major cities. Controlling this form of pollution requires a collective effort, demanding responsible participation from traders, consumers, and citizens alongside state initiatives.

Traders were urged to refrain from stockpiling, selling, or distributing contraband polythene bags. Instead, the ministry advocates switching to sustainable, reusable alternatives crafted from jute, cotton, and other environmentally sound materials. Market monitoring and awareness drives will continue alongside ongoing anti-polythene operations.

To underscore enforcement efforts, the minister revealed that mobile courts conducted 168 special drives over the past six months, resulting in 206 cases. These operations yielded over 1.9 million Taka in fines and led to the seizure of more than 50,000 metric tonnes of illegal polythene.

At the conclusion of the event, the minister distributed eco-friendly shopping bags among traders and shoppers. Senior officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Department of Environment accompanied him during the visit.