Kuakata:Kuakata Municipality has launched an initiative to enhance plastic waste management and recycling efforts, aiming to transform the tourist town into a cleaner, more environment-friendly destination.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a consultation meeting on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) took place with stakeholders at the municipality office this morning. The meeting, held at the municipal hall, focused on the detrimental effects of plastic waste, waste segregation, recycling, and the responsibilities of concerned individuals and organizations.
Speakers at the meeting highlighted that the indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste not only mars the beauty of the sea beach but also poses a threat to marine life and coastal biodiversity. They underscored the importance of segregating waste at its source, disposing of it in designated areas, collecting recyclable plastics, and raising public awareness to tackle the issue.
The need for collective participation from local residents, tourists, traders, hotel and motel owners, environmental activists, and private organizations, alongside the municipality, was emphasized as crucial for controlling plastic pollution. The meeting was presided over by Kuakata Municipality Administrator Yasin Sadek.
Notable attendees included environmental activist Mezbah Uddin Mannu, senior vice-president of Kuakata Municipal BNP Jasim Uddin Bablu, Kuakata Press Club General Secretary Zahirul Islam Miron, president of the Coastal Environment Protection Movement (UPRA) KM Bacchu, and plastic traders Sirajul Sikder and Nazma Begum, among others. Representatives from various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also participated in the meeting.
The organizers of the initiative aim to make Kuakata a sustainable and environment-friendly tourist destination through effective plastic waste management, expanded recycling activities, and improved coordination among stakeholders.