Normalisation of banned polythene

The sight of vendors handing over fish, meat, vegetables or groceries in thin polythene bags is common in markets across Bangladesh. Buyers and sellers have become accustomed to this convenience. It is, however, worth recalling that Bangladesh was the first country in the world to ban polythene bags in 2002, earning global recognition for its environmental leadership. More than two decades later, the ban remains ineffective and polythene has become deeply embedded in everyday life.
The ban was introduced because plastic waste clogs drains, contributes to waterlogging and causes long-term environmental pollution due to its non-biodegradable nature. In October 2024, the interim government renewed efforts to curb plastic pollution by banning polythene bags and proposing restrictions on 17 single-use plastic products, including straws and Styrofoam packaging. Ironically, these initiatives have gradually lost momentum, raising questions about whether the fight against polythene is limited to policy declarations.
The popularity of polythene is easy to understand. It is cheap, readily available, and convenient for both traders and consumers. However, this convenience comes at a heavy cost. Polythene can exist in the environment for hundreds of years, clog waterways, threaten aquatic life, and break down into microplastics that ultimately enter the human food chain through water, fish and even the air we breathe in.
At the same time, thousands of livelihoods depend on the production, transport, and sale of polythene products. Any effective transition must therefore be accompanied by viable alternatives. Bangladesh already has one: the environmentally friendly jute bag developed as a substitute for polythene. Promoting jute products, cloth bags, paper packaging, and other reusable materials can help reduce dependence on plastic.
Ultimately, lasting change requires more than laws. Effective enforcement, affordable alternatives and greater public awareness must go hand in hand. Otherwise, banned polythene will remain a part of daily life while the environment continues to bear the cost.

Ahnaf Ahsef Mahian
Student, University of Dhaka
mahian452@gmail.com