The fight against plastic pollution is gaining momentum in Pakistan’s Punjab province. In a significant move, the Punjab government has announced a complete ban on plastic bags coming into effect from June. This initiative aligns with the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and is part of a broader effort to promote environmental cleanliness.
This ban on plastic bags encompasses all types of shopping bags and polythene bags. The provincial government aims to tackle plastic pollution at its source, preventing its harmful effects on land, water, and air quality. Plastic debris not only degrades the environment but also poses health risks, with microplastics entering the food chain.
This decisive action builds upon previous efforts. Back in 2020, the Lahore High Court (LHC) had already banned the use of polythene bags in Lahore. Now, the Punjab government’s ban on plastic bags extends this regulation province-wide.
The move is accompanied by a comprehensive cleanliness plan. This plan involves waste collection at the tehsil level, daily street cleaning, and the creation of new jobs within the waste management system. Additionally, the government is establishing designated landfill sites for proper waste disposal.
Punjab’s ban on plastic bags signifies a positive step towards environmental protection. By eliminating plastic from our daily lives, we can create a cleaner and healthier future for all.
