Chattogram: Unilever Bangladesh Limited, a prominent company in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, has bolstered its efforts for sustainable plastic waste management by providing safety gear and implementing social protection measures in Chattogram.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the company distributed protective equipment to 1,673 waste collectors in the Chattogram City Corporation areas during an event. The gear, which includes safety vests, gumboots, rubber gloves, helmets, goggles, and iron hooks, aims to enhance occupational safety and minimize exposure to hazardous waste.
Additionally, 170 first-aid boxes were handed out to local scrap shops, known as bhangarwalas, to facilitate quick response to minor workplace injuries. Awareness about source segregation was expanded in schools and madrasas, with a three-bin system introduced in 50 institutions during the event, as per a press release.
Earlier, safety equipment was provided to 3,700 waste workers, and three-bin systems were installed in 61 schools. The initiative has facilitated the collection of over 30,000 tons of plastic waste. It also introduced insurance coverage and financial assistance to strengthen social protection for waste workers and their families.
These interventions have led to significant reductions in health risks and workplace accidents, as well as lower infection rates, reduced medical expenses, and enhanced productivity, according to monitoring and field evaluations.
The initiative has generated measurable socioeconomic benefits, including increased incomes, savings, and improved living standards, supported by safer working conditions and structured incentives.
Shamima Akhter, Director of Corporate Affairs, Partnerships, and Communications at Unilever Bangladesh, stated, “At Unilever Bangladesh, we believe that advancing environmental sustainability must go hand in hand with improving lives. Through our Plastic Waste Management Initiative, we have been working in Chattogram City since 2022 and have made strong progress.”
Unilever Bangladesh continues its commitment to expanding these efforts to create a lasting environmental and social impact nationwide.