ISLAMABAD: The current government has revived efforts to rid the federal capital of plastic waste, addressing a long-standing challenge exacerbated by population growth.
Plastic pollution has pervaded every corner of Islamabad, from drains to water bodies, posing a significant threat to the environment and wildlife.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, led by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), has launched a campaign titled “Say No to Plastics.” This initiative aims to enforce the Single-Use Plastics (Prohibition) Regulations, of 2023, which prohibit the manufacturing, importation, distribution, sale, and use of single-use plastic items.
Director General of Pak-EPA, Farzana Altaf Shah, highlighted the importance of controlling plastic litter and promoting responsible consumer behavior. Under the guidance of Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change, Romina Khursheed Alam, proactive steps are being taken, including social media campaigns, collection points, and engagement with stakeholders like the Collect and Recycle Alliance (CoRe).
Recognizing the significant role of producers, importers, distributors, and suppliers, the government emphasizes the need to incentivize responsible consumer behavior and promote reusable alternatives.
The alarming global plastic production statistics underscore the urgency of action, with Pakistan generating 3.3 million tons of plastic waste annually.
The enforcement of regulations involves collaboration between Pak-EPA and Islamabad Capital Territory administration, with recent confiscations of plastic items from various markets and eateries. However, experts stress the importance of a comprehensive approach encompassing awareness, capacity building, and accountability.
Aftab Alam Khan, CEO of Resilient Future International, advocates for a three-tier approach focusing on awareness, capacity building, and accountability. He emphasizes the “refuse, reduce, reuse, and recycle” strategy to combat plastic pollution and calls for an enabling environment for the production of quality reusable products.
The regulations also mandate the inclusion of at least 50% recycled plastic in single-use beverage containers by 2028. Producers, importers, and beverage companies are tasked with initiating awareness campaigns and may face fines for violations, ensuring accountability in plastic waste management.
The commitment to combat plastic pollution reflects Pakistan’s dedication to environmental sustainability and safeguarding public health. Through collective efforts and strict enforcement, the nation aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of plastic pollution and transition towards a circular economy.
—APP
