Polythene bags
Photo: Munir uz Zaman / Driknews
This is in reference to a letter appearing in your daily on June 13, 2009. I agree with Mr Rashid that polythene bags in Bangladesh need to be taken out of circulation due to its detrimental environmental effects. They are indestructible, and easily clog the drainage system - whatever little of it exists. The substitutes that he mentions are easily available and are bio-degradable. Polythene bags are used very extensively in North America. Every bag has the phrase “Please re-cycle” printed on it which means their use and re-use is encouraged. The primary route through which they exit circulation is through their use as garbage disposal bags. Since the garbage collection and disposal system in North America is streamlined, not a single polythene bag is seen floating on the streets or clogging the drains. Until a system of proper and environmentally-friendly disposal of polythene bags is put in place, I agree with Mr. Rashid that production, distribution and use be banned in Bangladesh by law. The price to be paid otherwise is going to be higher than we can imagine.
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