Develop robust plastic recycling industry

Dear sir,

Bangladeshs rapid economic growth and urbanization have significantly escalated both plastic consumption and pollution levels. According to a recent article in the Dhaka Tribune (April 2024), the annual per capita plastic usage in urban areas has surged from 3kg in 2005 to 9kg in 2020, marking a threefold increase over 15 years.

Similarly, consumption of LDPE packaging materials, such as plastic bags, has soared fivefold during the same period. Despite this surge, only 31% of the 977,000 tonnes of plastic consumed in 2020 were recycled, leaving a substantial portion to pollute the environment.
The challenges in plastic recycling are multifaceted. Insufficient collection from households and inadequate sorting contribute to the low recycling rate, with only 37.2% of Dhakas plastic garbage being recycled. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, about 14,500 tons of plastic waste were generated, including items like surgical masks, hand gloves, and sanitizer bottles, further exacerbating the issue.

By leveraging technological advancements, investing in infrastructure, and implementing effective policies, Bangladesh can transition towards a more sustainable and resilient plastic recycling industry, contributing to both economic prosperity and environmental conservation.

Md. Zidanur Rahman
Department of BBA
North South University