Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, commended Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for implementing a comprehensive ban on plastic bags across the province. According to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, this move, effective June 5, aligns with global efforts on World Environment Day to combat the environmental and health risks associated with plastic pollution.
In a recent statement, Romina Khurshid Alam emphasized the need for all provincial governments to follow Punjab’s lead in eliminating the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of plastics. “Achieving a plastic-free Pakistan demands coordinated efforts across all levels of governance,” she remarked, stressing the urgency of nationwide action.
Highlighting the challenges faced during the implementation of similar bans in Islamabad, Romina Khurshid Alam underscored the importance of public awareness and engagement. She advocated for eco-friendly alternatives such as cotton and paper bags to replace plastics, urging citizens to embrace sustainable practices.
The government’s ‘Plastic-Free Pakistan’ campaign aims to mitigate the long-term environmental impact of plastic waste, which contaminates land, water bodies, and marine life. Romina Khurshid Alam noted the detrimental effects of plastics on biodiversity and their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the need for biodegradable alternatives and enhanced recycling technologies.
Furthermore, the government is incentivizing the adoption of sustainable materials and improving waste management infrastructure nationwide. This includes supporting the establishment of recycling facilities and promoting responsible corporate practices to reduce plastic usage.
In conclusion, Romina Khurshid Alam called upon businesses, industries, and citizens alike to actively participate in safeguarding the environment through responsible plastic use and waste management practices.