Say Goodbye to Plastic: Sindh Government to Implement Ban on Plastic Bags Starting June 15, Experts Discuss at KU Forum

The University of Karachi recently hosted a seminar on World Environment Day to discuss plastic pollution. This event, organized in collaboration with the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa), aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic waste.

Agha Shahnawaz Khan, the provincial secretary for the environment, announced that starting June 15, 2025, plastic bags will be banned across Sindh. He stressed the need for action, stating that plastic is a major threat to our ecosystems. According to a recent report, around 11 million tonnes of plastic waste enter our oceans every year, affecting marine life and even our food supply. Khan emphasized that it is time for the province to adopt eco-friendly alternatives and work toward a circular economy.

KU’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, highlighted that Pakistan faces severe consequences from climate change—like rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall. He warned that if we don’t act now, future generations will bear the brunt of our inaction. He pointed out that 98% of plastic bags are non-biodegradable, posing serious environmental risks.

Sepa’s Director General, Waqar Hussain Phulpoto, confirmed that the ban aims to encourage industries to develop alternatives and laid out a plan for public awareness campaigns and community involvement. He promotes the use of cloth bags as a sustainable option instead of plastic.

Academic voices also weighed in. Dr. Samina Saeed, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, urged for educational efforts to foster environmental responsibility in communities. She pointed out that tackling plastic pollution requires a collective effort across various fields.

Professor Dr. Jamil Hasan Kazmi warned about the complexities of implementing environmental policies in Karachi, indicating that concerns over plastic extend far beyond just bags.

This seminar underscores a growing awareness of environmental issues in Pakistan, reflecting a global trend toward sustainability. As countries worldwide face similar challenges, collective action becomes more crucial than ever. For further details on the plastic pollution crisis and its impact, you can refer to studies from authoritative sources like the United Nations Environment Programme.

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