Ban plastic

Harmful and irreversible effects of plastic are not hidden from anyone. Mounds of rubbish – especially disposed of plastic bags – scattered in the streets of Karachi show that the authorities concerned have not only failed to keep the citizen, but to save residents from harmful effects of plastic. Although the Sindh High Court has passed an order to ban polyethylene shopping bags, these orders will have no impact unless they are implemented in a timely and effective manner. These plastic bags are not degradable because of which they poses a serious threat to the environment. The world is moving towards replacing plastic bags with other types of bio-degradable or paper bags. On the other hand, Pakistan is stuck in old, harmful ways.

The provincial government should collaborate with environmental experts to tackle the situation. Effective measures should be taken to cancel out the harmful effects of plastic bags on the environment. Campaigns should be launched on both print and electronic media to create awareness among people. Residents should be informed of the dangerous effects of plastic bags. The authorities should introduce alternatives to plastic bags in a timely manner so that people can make smooth transition.

Mehran Khan ( Islamabad )