Join the Fight Against Plastic Pollution: Civil Society Calls for Immediate Regional Action

Plastic Pollution Threatens the Bay of Bengal

Change Initiative, a civil society organization, has sounded the alarm about rising plastic pollution in Bangladesh. This issue is particularly critical in the Bay of Bengal, where plastic waste harms marine life, disrupts fisheries, and threatens public health.

A recent report by Change Initiative states that approximately 15,345 tonnes of single-use plastic enter the Bay of Bengal daily through 18 rivers. This is one of the highest rates of plastic pollution globally. The plastics not only accumulate in the water but also damage the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, by degrading vital fish nurseries and coastal livelihoods.

The impact is not just environmental. The report estimates a loss of $11.4 billion annually in ecosystem services in Bangladesh and neighboring countries due to marine plastic pollution. Alarmingly, 86% of global river plastic emissions into oceans originate from Asia, with the Ganges being the second-largest contributor, releasing up to 115,000 tonnes each year.

M Zakir Hossain Khan, CEO of Change Initiative, points out, “Our coast is becoming a plastic hotspot. Corporations promoting plastic must share accountability for its sustainable management.” He argues for a global ban on single-use plastics, particularly near ecologically sensitive areas.

The report calls for important changes, like granting legal status to marine zones like the Sundarbans to enhance community accountability against polluters. Additionally, there is a push for strict tracking of plastic products in coastal industries and a regional agreement on plastic waste management under frameworks like BIMSTEC.

Experts warn that without immediate action, Bangladesh’s coasts will remain vulnerable to worsening plastic pollution, referred to as a “toxic pool of waste.”

### Recent Trends and Public Reactions

Social media discussions about plastic pollution have surged, with many users sharing personal experiences of seeing plastic waste on beaches and in rivers. Hashtags like #BanPlastic and #CleanOceans have gained popularity, fostering a community push for sustainable practices.

In summary, the ongoing pollution crisis highlights the need for urgent collective action. Addressing the growing threat of plastic in the Bay of Bengal will require commitment from governments, corporations, and communities alike.

For further details, you can refer to the full report by Change Initiative [here](https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqBwgKMIivlQsw2ZKrAw?ceid=US:en&oc=3).