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DHAKA, Oct 1, 2024 (BSS) - Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, today urged all to use alternative products to polythene shopping bags.

She also called upon shop owners, sellers and the general public to comply with the government's decision to introduce alternatives to polythene bags in superstores, coming into effective today (1 October).

The Environment Adviser made the call while inaugurating the programme for the use of alternative shopping bags to polythene at Agora and Meena Bazar superstores in the capital on Tuesday.

She emphasised that the campaign is solely focused on eliminating polythene shopping bags.

Rizwana further stated that from 1 October, no one will be allowed to bring or receive polythene shopping bags from markets.

"The next step will be to ban single-use plastics. To achieve this, cooperation among the public, businesses and all stakeholders is crucial," she added.

The adviser mentioned that superstores are willingly implementing this decision.

"Discussions with the Ministry of Jute have been held, and actions against polythene production will begin in November," she said.

She stressed increasing awareness among both buyers and sellers.

The Secretary and Additional Secretary of the ministry, the Director General of the Department of Environment, leaders of the Bangladesh Jute Mills Association and representatives from the Superstore Owners Association were present.

All participants vowed to implement this government decision.

During the visit, Rizwana Hasan interacted with customers, sellers and students.