Push for more innovation for plastic circularity

Unilever Bangladesh Limited (UBL), the country's leading Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company, and Bangladesh Plastic Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BPGMEA), jointly organised a national seminar titled 'Innovation for Plastic Circularity' in Dhaka recently.

Dr. Colin Kerr, Head of Packaging Excellence and Technology, Unilever; presented his keynote paper on 'Innovation and Inspiration in Packaging for Holistic Plastic Circularity', where he illustrated the innovations that Unilever has adopted in packaging globally to ensure environmentally friendly packaging.

The seminar featured two panel discussions -- one on 'Importance of Innovative Design for Plastic Circularity' and the other on 'Importance of Innovation in Collection and Recycling for Plastic Circularity', says a press release.

Planning Minister MA Mannan was present at the seminar as the chief guest.

Besides, an exhibition titled 'Innovative Material and Packaging', showcased the innovation in producing and recycling plastic products and packaging from local organisations.

Planning Minister MA Mannan said, "The exhibition gave us the opportunity to see innovations in plastic packaging closely. The seminar, jointly initiated by UBL and BPGMEA is undoubtedly commendable."

"The government remains vigilant concerning the country's business landscape, while our primary objective is the overall development of the nation," he added.

It is not possible to ensure a good life for the people of Bangladesh without ensuring development by addressing issues regarding not only plastic pollution, but all sorts of pollution, the minister said.

Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Chairman of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, said, "Our previous model of using natural resources was linear. A resource was taken from the environment, used and finally thrown back into the environment. However, as the awareness about the importance of proper waste management has increased, there is a need for the circular model."

Dr Colin Kerr, Global Head of Packaging Excellence and Technology, Unilever, said, "Unilever is globally implementing its Golden Packaging Rule and digital models for innovative plastic packaging. Both rigid packaging and flexible packaging play an important role in providing the product to consumers. But they also leave a plastic footprint which Unilever is committed to reduce through time-bound actions. Our holistic aim to achieve 'less, better and no plastic' framework is reflected in our commitment to innovate plastic packaging designs. Unilever Bangladesh has already successfully implemented new approaches to reduce plastic packaging".

Zaved Akhtar, CEO and Managing Director (MD) of Unilever Bangladesh, said, "We all have a responsibility towards the planet. As part of Unilever's global push for innovation in plastic packaging and a waste-free planet, Unilever Bangladesh is actively adopting innovations in how our products are packaged. Through innovative packaging and effective waste management implementation, UBL aims to optimise plastic's many benefits."

Shamim Ahmed, President of BPGMEA, said the need for plastics has increased exponentially to maintain product quality, but proper waste management is also essential.

He requested the ministries concerned and the government to ensure adequate support for the industry.

Among others, Dr Fahmida Khanom, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Md Amin Helaly, Vice President, Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), also spoke.