DHAKA, June 5, 2024 (BSS) - A daylong Plastic-Free Cities Campaign was held at Mohammadpur Town Hall Market and Mohakhali Market in Dhaka on the occasion of the World Environment Day.

The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and Unilever Bangladesh Limited (UBL) jointly organised the campaign, a GAIN press release said.

Ward Councilor of Dhaka North City Corporation Shofiqul Islam Sentu inaugurated the campaign.

Prof Dr Mohammad Raknuzzaman, Chairman of Department of Fisheries at University of Dhaka, and Sumaiya T Ahmed, Manager - Sustainability, Partnerships and Communications at Unilever, were present at the campaign launching ceremony here.

The campaign, which ran from morning to evening, featured esteemed guests from the Dhaka North City Corporation Chief Health Officer, the Ward Councilor, and Zonal Executive Officer.

In alignment with the 2024 World Environment Day theme focusing on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, the Plastic-Free Cities Campaign highlighted the interconnectedness of plastic waste reduction and land health.

Plastic pollution contributes significantly to land degradation, disrupting soil health and water cycles, which are crucial for combating desertification and promoting drought resilience.

By reducing plastic waste, the initiative aimed to foster healthier ecosystems, improve soil quality, and enhance the resilience of urban areas to environmental challenges. Throughout the day, attendees participated in surveys to understand plastic usage behaviors. Customers purchasing products worth a minimum of Taka 500 received eco-friendly, biodegradable bags. Additionally, a quiz booth was set up, offering eco-friendly bags as prizes for participants.

This event also marked the launch of the initiative 'For People & Planet: Resilient, Healthy & Sustainable Food & Environment Systems.' This initiative sought to enhance environmental sustainability and public health in Bangladesh's urban areas by addressing low-value plastic waste in fresh markets.

Fresh markets, which play a vital role in providing affordable and diverse products, often face hygiene challenges and generate excessive plastic waste. This pilot project aims to mitigate these issues through innovative solutions and effective waste management strategies. Key participants, including market vendors, packaging suppliers, and government officials, will receive training to promote sustainable practices.