Staff Reporter
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, urged the university community to take meaningful steps toward eliminating plastic waste and setting an example for other institutions. “Once BRAC University finalizes its action plan for a plastic-free campus, I would invite other private universities to learn from the initiative, fostering a responsible future generation,” she said.

Environment Advisor said this while delivered the chief guest speech at the inaugural ceremony of “Plastic-Free Zero-Waste Campus: Green Pledge” at BRAC University today.

Highlighting the severe impact of plastic pollution, she pointed out that microplastics have infiltrated human organs, including kidneys, livers, and even brains. “Research suggests that microplastics in the brain may obstruct blood flow, posing severe health risks. While scientists are still studying the full impact, it is clear that this is not good news.”

She also shed light on Bangladesh’s alarming plastic consumption, stating, “We produce two crore plastic shopping bags daily. The Buriganga River, for example, has thick layers of polythene on its bed, making even dredging difficult and costly.” She stressed that plastic pollution is affecting not only rivers but also agriculture, with farmers finding plastic waste in their fields due to poor waste management.

Calling for a shift in mindset, she questioned why people hesitate to give up plastic bags when their ancestors managed without them. “Every time you go shopping, carry your own bag. Jute bags are readily available—why not use them?” she urged.

While acknowledging the role of recycling, she warned that it is not a simple solution. “Developed countries have better recycling facilities, yet they prioritize alternatives because recycling is energy-intensive and involves harmful chemicals. Our focus should be on reducing plastic use, not just recycling it.”

She also emphasized the need for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), ensuring that manufacturers take responsibility for collecting and recycling their plastic waste. “Bangladesh is finalizing its EPR directive soon, making large companies accountable for their waste.”

Concluding her speech, she challenged individuals to take responsibility. “Many ask why polythene bags are still available if they are banned. Instead of questioning the authorities, ask yourself why you are still using them despite knowing their harmful effects.”

The event at BRAC University marks a significant step in Bangladesh’s fight against plastic pollution, inspiring students and faculty to take action towards a cleaner, greener future.

Tamara Abed, Chairman, Board of Trusties, BRAC University; Dr. Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor, BRAC University also spoke in the occasion. Teachers, Students, Faculties also present in the occasion.

In the inauguration ceremony BRAC and BracU signed an MoU for this purpose. Later, Advisor visited stalls of exhibition showcasing alternative of plastic materials. She also handed over certificates to the winning students.