Call for Nationwide Crackdown on Plastic Pollution as Usage Surges Across Pakistan

Syed Aman Shah stressed the urgent need

to promote eco-friendly alternatives to

reduce environmental degradation

Staff Reporter

Karachi: Syed Aman Shah, Provincial Convener of Awaam Pakistan Balochistan, has called for a countrywide awareness campaign against the use of plastic bags and PET bottles in light of World Environment Day. He stressed the urgent need to promote eco-friendly alternatives to reduce environmental degradation and Pakistan’s carbon footprint.

Highlighting alarming statistics, Shah revealed that Pakistan produces nearly 55 billion plastic bags annually, with production increasing by 15% each year. He noted that 60% of urban waste consists of plastic, making it a major threat to the environment.

He expressed concern over the fact that only 3% of plastic waste is currently recycled in the country. “Banning plastic bags alone will not solve the problem. The government must ensure the availability of affordable and eco-friendly alternatives such as biodegradable, cloth, or jute bags,” he said.

Shah urged the public and private sectors to collaborate in order to make these alternatives accessible. He also recommended providing technical and financial support to local manufacturers to help them transition to sustainable products.

He warned that plastic waste, due to poor management and public negligence, clogs drainage systems and contributes to urban flooding during the monsoon season. Shah appealed to the public to stop using plastic bags and take responsibility for protecting the environment.