TIB urges govt for stronger action

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) yesterday called upon the government for strict implementation of laws against illegal production, marketing and use of plastic to protect the environment.

The Bangladesh chapter of the anti-corruption watchdog, in a statement prior to World Environment Day, demanded ensuring transparency and increasing people's participation in all climate finance activities and in funding on preventing pollution.

It said amendments in existing laws with heightened punishments are required while exemplary punishments for violating the law need to be ensured. Besides, awards can be conferred to encourage noteworthy contributions.

This year, the World Environment Day theme is “Beat Plastic Pollution: If You Can't Reuse It, Refuse It”. TIB has arranged different programmes to mark the day.

The Department of Environment in cooperation with stakeholders has to take up proper plans and implement a community-based waste management system to control production of plastic and its use, TIB said in the statement.

The public and private sectors should provide incentives to ensure reuse of plastic through an advanced waste-management mechanism. TIB further demanded innovation of biodegradable alternatives of plastic.

TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said people's participation has to be increased in climate finance activities, and publishing of reports on financial transactions and performance has to be self-motivated.

He said, “Bangladesh has already become a top climate change affected country. Although it's the first country that formulated a law banning polythene use in 2002, the benefit couldn't be reaped due to the failure of its implementation.

“Polythene is being used carelessly, and 3 lakh tonnes of plastic waste is dumped in rivers, canals, other water bodies and open spaces each year. Illegal use of plastic can be controlled if exemplary punishment is ensured. Besides, a pollution taxation system can be introduced.”

“The state's constitutional responsibility is to conserve environment and ensure its development, protect and conserve natural resources, biodiversity, water bodies, forests and wildlife,” he added.  He stressed on accelerating diplomatic efforts for speedy, transparent, and easiest way to secure funds as promised in the 'Paris Agreement' for climate change affected countries including Bangladesh.